DODGE COUNTY,
WISCONSIN,
PAST AND
PRESENT
Homer Bishop Hubbell
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Dodge County. Wisconsin - Past and Present
Vol.2
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DODGE COUNTY
WISCONSIN
Past and Present
VOLUME II
ILLUSTRATED
CHICAGO
THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY
1913
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Biographical
JUDGE JAMES JEFFERSON DICK.
Hon. James Jefferson Dick, formerly judge of the thirteenth judicial circuit,
comprising the counties of Dodge, Waukesha, Washington and Ozaukee, and a
resident of Beaver Dam, was born in Westfield, Chautauqua county, New York,
September 8, 1836, and passed away in licavcr Dam, March 8, 1907. The
founder of the family was James J. Dick, a native of Scotland, who came to this
country at the age of eighteen years, settling in Vermont, where he was married
and where James Dick, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born. Hav-
ing learned a trade, the father settled in western New York, where he married
Miss Mahala Rogers, a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent.
James J. Dick received his primary education in the common schools of
Westfield, New York and this was followed by a full course in the Wester-
field Academy. In 1856 he came with his parents to Westfield, Marquette
county, Wisconsin, and was successfully engaged in teaching for four years
from 1856, spending his leisure time in reading law, gaining such a knowledge
thereof that he was able to complete the course in the law school of Albany
within one year, graduating in June, 1861. In August, following, he came
to Beaver Dam, where he resided until his death, actively engaged in the
practice of his profession. As a lawyer he was faithful to his clients, skilful
in the management of his cases and his practice extended to almost every
branch of the profession. For three years from January, i86t, he was the
law partner of H. W. Lander, and after that he practiced alone. In 1896 he
was elected judge of the thirteenth judicial circuit, and was subsequently twice
reelected, discharging the duties of this honorable and responsible office ably
and faithfully.
The office of judge is the only official position which Mr. Dick ever held,
except that he was for more than two decades superintendent of schools of the
city of Beaver Dam, and in that connection has been called the "father of the
Beaver Dam public schools." His repeated reelection to the office of super-
intendent of schools of his home city, regardless of politics is abundant evidence
of the ability and fidelity he evidenced in the discharge of his official duties and
of his popularity among his fellow citizens
At a citizens' meeting held August 30. 1884, which resulted in the founding
of the old Beaver Dam Public Library, of which the present Williams Free
Public Library is the successor. Judge Dick was elected a member of the
board of directors, a position which he held continuously until his death, being
the last surviving member of the original board. On June 8, 1885, when the
Beaver Dam Public Library had been accepted by the city -nd was reorganized
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
under the laws of Wisconsin as the Free Public Library of the City of Beaver
Dam, he was elected president of the board of directors and served most acceptably
in that capacity during the remainder of his life — a period of twenty-two years.
He was intensely interested in public education and fully realized the value of
a well selected and properly conducted free public library, in the accomplish-
ment of the great purpose which was with him a life work. To attain the
success of this beneficent object of his ambition, he gave unsparingly of his
time, his labor and his means ; and the high rank this library now holds among
similar institutions of the state and nation, is due in a large degree to his loyal,
untiring and zealous efforts in its behalf.
On August 5, 1862, Judge Dick was married to Helen M. Drown of Beaver
Dam, a native of Vermont, who proved to be a most worthy and congenial
helpmate and who survives him. Mrs. Dick is a devout communicant of the
Episcopal church. They had no children. Politically, Judge Dick was a demo-
crat but he never aspired to or held any political office. He was a member of
the Masonic order and the Odd Fellows and an attendant of the Episcopal
church.
Judge Dick died at his home, 220 Park avenue, Beaver Dam, March 8, 1907.
He had been taken ill several weeks before at the Hotel Pfister, Milwaukee,
after he had finished the January term of the Waukesha circuit court. His
wife, who was spending the winter in Florida, was notified and came imme-
diately to (Milwaukee, and from there accompanied him to their home in Beaver
Dam a few days before his death. After his arrival home, he gradually grew
worse and passed away, literally dying in harness, as he had always wished
to do. The funeral was held under the auspices of Dodge County Lodge, No.
72, F. & A. M., with an escort of Knights Templar, the honorary and active
pallbearers being prominent representatives of the bench and bar of the circuit.
The general attendance was very large and in respect of his memory the public
schools were closed for the day and the business places while the funeral serv-
ices were being held.
The children of today who are taught along lines of modern instruction in
our schools and academies are being trained in citizenship which will influence
their activities as business, commercial, and professional men of tomorrow.
The men who as teachers direct their minds and influence their character have a
heavy and responsible duty. In their hands rests to some extent the future
quality of citizenship, and upon their conscientiousness and ability depends the
future of the children. A man who is doing able work along progressively
expanding lines in school development is Edwin P. Brown, who in his capacity
as instructor in the Wayland Academy of Beaver Dam is promoting the love
of learning among his pupils, and as principal of that institution is doing remark-
able disciplinary work along lines of mental and moral culture.
Mr. Brown was born in Beaver Dam, November t8, 1869. He is a son of
John P. and Laura (Putnam) Brown, the former a native of Williamsburg,
EDWIN P. BROWN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
7
Brooklyn, New York, and the latter of Plainfield, New Jersey. Mr. Brown's
parents were married in the east and came to Wisconsin in 1864, settling imme-
diately in Beaver Dam. The father was a prominent builder in this city and
one of its enterprising and representative men. He was a democrat in his
political views and served as a member of the school board for many years.
He belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was treasurer of
that organization for twenty-five years. The mother was a devout and faithful
member of the Baptist church, a woman of warm hospitality and optimistic
disposition.
Edwin P. Brown was reared at home and received his primary education
in the public schools of Beaver Dam. He attended high school in the same
city and was graduated in 1887. He later attended Wayland Academy and com-
pleted the course in that institution, graduating in 1890. He afterward taught
Latin and Greek in Gale College, Galesville, Wisconsin, spending two years
in this occupation. From 1892 to 1894 he was enrolled as a student in Brown
University. In 1894 he entered the University of Chicago and was graduated
from that institution with the degree of A. B., in 1896, completing an efficient,
broad, and thoroughly modern education. He acquired in his career as a student
a liberal general culture which did not in any way affect his detailed knowledge
along special lines. He has always been an intelligent and judicious leader and
in this way has added to his splendid equipment. He served during his course
at Brown University as principal of the evening school of Central Falls, Rhode
Island. In this school three hundred and fifty children, chiefly workers in the
J. and P. Coates Thread mills, were enrolled as students. At the conclusion of
his college course he was for one year principal of the high school of Farmer
City, Illinois, and for one year instructor in English at Morgan Park Academy of
the University of Chicago. He is now one of the most prominent educators in
Dodge county. His position as principal of the Wayland Academy of Beaver
Dam, makes him an influential factor in school development. He began with this
institution as instructor in English in 1897 and his position as principal dates
from the year 1901. His efficient work has been recognized by a prominent place
in the affairs of the Northern Central Association of College and Secondary
Schools in which he has been an officer. His work along educational lines has
been of the expanding and constructive sort which makes his activities valuable
in affairs of this character in the state of Wisconsin.
On August 31, 1897, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Mabel
Vaughan, whose birth occurred on November 7, 1870. She is a daughter of
O. D. and Al Maria (Cass) Vaughan, and is one of a family of five children, the
others being: John, who died in early childhood; Grace L., who resides in River-
side, California; High D., of Kelso, Washington; and Ray C, who maintains his
residence in San Francisco, California. To Mr. and Mrs. Edwin P. Brown have
been born two children : Hartley Vaughan Brown, whose birth occurred on
July 2, 1899, and Robert Vaughan Brown, born July 31, 1908, both of whom
are attending school in Beaver Dam.
Mr. Brown is a stanch Baptist and served on the board in the Wisconsin
State Convention of that church. In the Masonic order he belongs to Beaver
Dam Chapter, No. 72, R. A. M. He is one of the broadly cultured and thor-
oughly scientific teachers in Dodge county today. The conditions of modern
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
living are growing more complex each year and education must be developed to
meet the situation. No man has done more to raise the standard of instruction
than has Edwin P. Brown, who makes his pupils ready followers of his teachings
by the genial and genuine quality of his friendship.
ROYAL F. CLARK.
One of the most promising young attorneys of Dodge and Columbia counties
is Royal F. Clark, of Randolph, who has been practicing law in this city since
1904. In a few years he has made himself known in the courts of Dodge
county as an abte, logical and broadly-read lawyer and has gained a degree of
success which is the outcome of merit. He was born in Adams county in 1881.
a son of B. F. and Jennie (Keith) Clark. The father's birth occurred in New
York in 1851 and when he was a young man he moved to Wisconsin, settling
on a farm near Kilbourn, upon which he resides. His wife is a daughter of
Josiah Keith, a native of Vermont, who emigrated to Wisconsin at an early
date and located near Sun Prairie, afterward moving to New Haven, Adams
county, where his death occurred at the age of eighty-nine. He is buried in
the New Haven cemetery. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Clark settled
on a farm in Adams county and upon this property they are residing at the
present time. Royal F., is the next in order of birth. Four children were bom
to their union. Edith, born in 1879, married Bradford Richmond and they
reside on a farm south of Columbus, Wisconsin. Ruth was born in 1884 and
died in 1901, and is buried in a cemetery at New Haven, Wisconsin. Ruby,
born in 1887, is filling the position of private secretary to Dean Harper, of the
Conservatory of Music of Appleton University.
Royal F. Clark was educated in the Wisconsin public schools and is a grad-
uate of the Portage high school. He studied law in the University of Mich-
igan, at Ann Arbor, and immediately after being admitted to the bar entered the
offices of H. E. Andrews and Judge Strand, in Portage. In 1904 he was
admitted to the bar of the United States district court and on August 24 oi
the same year came to Randolph, where he has since been practicing with con
spicuous success.
In June, 1907, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Bessie M. Gamble,
a daughter of James Gamble, a former resident of Trenton, Wisconsin, who
resides in Fox Lake. Mr. and Mrs. Gark have one son. Warren G., who was
born in October, 1908
Mr. Clark gives his allegiance to the republican party and although he ne\C
seeks public office, his legal attainments won him the position of district attor-
ney of Columbia county. He served for two years, from igo6 to 1908, and
did able and effective work as a public official. He is well known in the
Masonic order, holding membership in the lodge, chapter and ctnnmandcry.
Besides various other important interests, he is identified with the Beaver Can
ning Company of South Beaver Dam, of which he is president and a director
As a lawyer he is recognized as a strong and able practitioner, an expert in
unravelling legal tangles and possesses all the mental acumen necessary for
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
9
the accomplishment of success in his difficult profession. Under all circum-
stances he counts his honor and his self-respect as of more value than wealth,
fame and position. However, these also have come to him and at an early
age. He has gained that prosperity which results from earnest and well
directed effort and is accounted one of the leading attorneys of his locality.
D. P. LAMOREUX.
The leaders are comparatively few. The great majority of mankind are
content to remain in the positions where circumstances seem to place them,
but occasionally there are found those who possess determination and initiative
spirit sufficient to pass beyond such a point and who therefore become promi-
in the field to which they direct their efforts. Such has been the history of
D. P. Lamoreux. Each step in his career has been a forward one and laud-
able ambition has led the way to success until he ranks today with the promi-
nent business men of Wisconsin. He was born December 12, 1873, a son of
Silas Wright and Hattie Lamoreux. The father was born in Madison county,
New York, March 8, 1843, and pursued his education in that state. He came
to Wisconsin in 1862, when a young man of nineteen years, and during the period
of the Civil war put aside all business and personal considerations in order to
respond to the country's call for aid, enlisting in a regiment of Wisconsin vol-
unteers, with which he served as captain. High political and judicial honors
came to him ; he filled the office of state senator for one term, was district attorney
of Dodge county for four years, was county judge for fourteen years or from 1879
until 1893, and in the latter year was appointed commissioner of the general land
office of the United States at Washington, in which capacity he served for four
years. He was afterward president of the Mayville (Wis.) Exchange Bank for
four years and successfully engaged in the practice of law, ranking with the emi-
nent attorneys of the state. He was interested in the manufacture of malleable
iron and has become well known in that connection. In the family were four chil-
dren : C. W., who has served as county judge, and makes his home in Mayville ;
H. S. ; Vivian L., the wife of W. K. Murphy ; and D. P.
The last named was a pupil in the high school of Mayville and afterward
entered the University of Wisconsin, from which he was graduated in 1895.
He spent three years in civil engineering and was private secretary to the gen-
eral commissioner of the land office at Washington from 1895 unt & l %97 m_
clusive. He afterward spent three months in the Exchange Bank of Mayville,
but the lure of the west attracted him and he made his way to Seattle, Wash-
ington, where he became connected with steamship lines running their boats
between Seattle and Alaska. On the 23d of January, 1898, he returned to
Beaver Dam and has since been identified with the Malleable Iron Works. He
entered the clerical department but his business ability soon won recognition
in his promotion to the office of treasurer. Later he was made treasurer and
manager and in August, 1909, was chosen president and general manager, which
is his present connection with one of the most extensive and important pro-
ductive industries of the state. He stands prominent among the business men
10
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
who are capable of directing mammoth enterprises, who coordinate seemingly
diverse elements into a harmonious whole and whose keen sagacity enables
them to formulate plans that lead to successful completion. He is likewise a
director of the German National Bank and of the Beaver Dam Manufacturing
Company and his sound judgment and keen insight make his cooperation a
valuable asset in the conduct of any business enterprise.
Mr. Lamoreux stands for progress in all those lines of activity which should
interest every public-spirited citizen. He has been a stalwart champion of the
cause of education, a stanch advocate of the political principles which he deems
essential in good government and a factor in local progress and improvement.
He is a member of the board of regents of the University of Wisconsin and is
a member of the board of trustees of the Library Association of Beaver Dam.
He is likewise a trustee of the Wisconsin House and Farm Association and is
president of the Great White Way Association. He belongs also to the Wis-
consin Manufacturers Association and has served on some of its most impor-
tant committees. For one term he served as alderman of Beaver Dam but has
always preferred that his public duty should be done as a private citizen. He
belongs to that class of men who wield a power which is all the more potent
from the fact that it is moral rather than political and is exercised for the public
weal rather than for personal ends. Fraternally he is connected with the blue
lodge of Masons and he belongs to the Milwaukee Club, the Railway Business
Association and the Delta Tau Delta of Madison.
On the 19th of November, 1898, Mr. Lamoreux was married to Miss Isa-
belle Holmes, a daughter of Mrs. Fred Bausman, of Seattle. Their children
are: Fred S., who was born in 1900; and Bertram Holmes, in 1906. Both are
now pupils in the public schools of Beaver Dam. "Well descended and well
bred," reared in a life of constant and healthful activity, D. P. Lamoreux has
made constant advancement and his actions have been of constantly broadening
scope. Throughout his life he has held many important relations to the public
interest and his business interests are of a character that contribute in extensive
measure to public prosperity as well as to individual success.
HON. EDWARD CLINTON McFETRIDGE.
The record of few public men extend over a longer period and no life
has been more faultless in honor, fearless in conduct or stainless in reputation
than that of Edward Clinton McFetridge. Many tangible evidences can be
cited of his devotion to the public good when in office. He has labored to
further local improvement and general progress and has long been accounted
one of the leaders of the republican party in Wisconsin. At the same time
Beaver Dam has benefited by his efforts along business lines, for his business
interests have usually been of a character that has contributed to public pros-
perity as well as to individual success.
Mr. McFetridge was born in Rochester, New York, on the 15th of April,
1836, and acquired his education in the public schools of that city, supplemented
by a year's study in the University of Rochester. He afterward read law in
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the office of Townsend & Shuart and was admitted to practice upon passing
an examination before the supreme court in Rochester in 1857.
In the fall of 1858 Mr. McFetridge arrived in Beaver Dam, where his
brother, James A. McFetridge, was engaged in the manufacture of woolen
goods in company with the late George H. Stewart. Edward C. McFetridge
here entered upon the practice of law in connection with Hon. A. Scott Sloan,
now deceased. This relation was maintained until 1864, when he withdrew
from the profession and entered into business relations with his brother in
the building of the Beaver Dam Woolen Mills. Subsequently they were joined
by John T. Smith and others and the business was incorporated. For a number
of years it was conducted successfully but in 1908 was shut down and the plant
is now for sale.
Throughout all the years of his residence in Beaver Dam, covering more
than a half century, Mr. McFetridge has figured prominently in public life.' He
has been called to many positions of honor and trust of a local nature and
again in connection with affairs of state. In 1863 and again in 1864 he was
elected superintendent of schools and did much to formulate the educational
policy of the city at that early period. In 1870 he was elected mayor of Beaver
Dam and in the same year was elected county treasurer and again in 1872.
In 1871 he was chosen one of the county supervisors and in 1878 was elected
to represent his district in the general assembly. During the ensuing legislative
session he was appointed chairman of the committee on state affairs and later
in the session was appointed a member on the joint special committee of the
senate and house on the revision of the statutes. While in the legislature he
reported in favor of and strongly advocated the amending of the state constitu-
tion in favor of holding biennial sessions of the general assembly. The joint
resolution for such amendment was passed by the legislature of 1878-9 and
ratified by the vote of the people in November, 1881. In the latter year Mr.
McFetridge was elected state treasurer of Wisconsin and was reelected in 1884,
his incumbency continuing until January 1, 1887, or for a period of six years,
his reelection being evidence of his excellent service during his first term and
the confidence and trust reposed in him by the public. In 1889 he was a can-
didate for the nomination for governor but the plurality vote went to the Hon.
W. D. Hoard, who was elected. From the time that age conferred upon him
the right of franchise to the present, Mr. McFetridge has been a stalwart advo-
cate of republican principles. By education and choice he became a member
of the party and his first presidential ballot was cast for Abraham Lincoln.
In 1872 he was chosen a presidential elector and had the honor of casting Wis-
consin's vote for Ulysses S. Grant for president. His last presidential vote
supported William H. Taft and at the same time he voted in favor of women's
suffrage but was on the losing side in both instances.
On the 15th of October, 1861, Mr. McFetridge was married to Miss Fran-
ces Amelia Blanchard, of Tecumseh, Michigan, who departed this life February
28, 1898, leaving one son, John Charles.
Aside from his business and political activity Mr. McFetridge has become
widely known in other connections. He has been a director of the Williams
Free Library since its organization and was a member of its original
building committee in 1891. He is a life member of the State Historical Society
12
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
and is a thirty-second degree Mason, actively interested in the work of the
craft. He belongs to all the local Masonic organizations, in which he has held
many important positions and is untiring in his work for the welfare of the
local bodies. His life has ever exemplified the beneficent spirit of the craft,
which has as its basic element mutual helpfulness and brotherly kindness. He
stands as a high type of American manhood and chivalry and of American
citizenship as well. He has never deviated from a course which he has believed
to be right between himself and his fellowmen, nor has he failed to follow a
course which his judgment has sanctioned as of greatest value in public affairs.
While he is no longer an active factor in public life in the sense of seeking
office, he keeps in touch with the advanced thought of the day and is thoroughly
informed concerning questions of importance.
Thirty-one years' identification with various business enterprises in Beaver
Dam, where he has carried on his operations honorably and prosperously during
the time, entitle Richard A. Biechl to be numbered among the representative
men of the city. He has many friends in the community in which he resides,
for he has maintained his residence here since he was twenty-two years of age.
. His birth occurred in Trenton, October 19, 1859, and he is a son of Edward and
Theresa (Vetter) Biechl, natives of Germany. They came to America at an
early date and were married in Wisconsin, where the father purchased eighty
acres of land upon which he lived for several years. He finally returned to
Milwaukee, where he worked at his trade for about three years returning to his
farm in 1890. He carried on general agricultural pursuits upon this property
for some time, eventually retiring from active life and moving to Beaver Dam
where his death occurred in 1910 in the seventy-eighth year of his age. His wife
had passed away two weeks previously and both are buried in Oakwood ceme-
tery.
Richard A. Biechl was the second in a family of six children. He was educated
in the public schools of Dodge county and at the age of twenty-two came to
Beaver Dam where he was identified with a farm implement business as sales-
man for three years. For thirteen years afterward he was active in the hard-
ware business, selling out his interests at the end of that time to join with his
brother in the conduct of a similar enterprise. ' Their partnership continued for
eight years and the business was conducted ably and prosperously during that
time. Since it has been abandoned, Mr. Biechl has been engaged in buying and
selling real estate and has met with his usual success in this line of activity,
founding his prosperity upon honorable and upright commercial standards and
upon industry, intelligence and determination.
In 1886 the subject of this review was united in marriage to Miss Lena Hof-
ferbert, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Hofferbert, natives of Germany.
They came to America in early life and settled in Pennsylvania, coming subse-
quently to Wisconsin where they both died. Mrs. Biechl was the youngest of a
family of four children and was born August 12, 1861. She died in Beaver Dam
in 1910. Ten years later our subject was again wedded, his union being with
RICHARD A. BIECHL.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
13
Miss Florence Smith, of Endeavor, Wisconsin. He has two children, Alexander
and Richard K., both of whom live at home. The two eldest children of this
family died in infancy. In his political beliefs Mr. Biechl is independent, voting
according to his personal convictions. He has served for two years as a member
of the board of education and is interested in every phase of local development.
He and his family are members of the German Lutheran church. He seeks his
success in a business way and has attained prosperity along commercial lines.
The success which he has attained is the result of qualities of honor and in-
tegrity in his character which unite to make him a worthy citizen and a loyal
and upright man.
LOUIS C. PAUTSCH.
Louis C. Pautsch, who for five years has been clerk of Dodge county, was
born in Hubbard township on the 5th of April, 1868. He is a son of Carl and
Fridericka (Zuelsdarf) Pautsch, natives of Pomerania, Germany, the father
having been born on the 27th of June, 1831, and the mother on the 1st of
October, 1836. They were married on the 26th of January, 1857, and on June
14, of the same year, they set sail for America, coming directly to Dodge county.
The father purchased a small tract of land in Hubbard township and turned
his attention to agricultural pursuits, although in the old country he herded
sheep, with the exception of the three years he served in the army. They had
but limited means but they had been trained from childhood in habits of dili-
gence and thrift and through their united efforts prospered. Mr. Pautsch
assiduously applied himself to the development of his farm until 1873, when
he sold it and removed to Chester township, where he engages in agricultural
pursuits, making his home with one of his sons. In earlier life he took an
active interest in the political affairs of the county and served for fifteen years
as assessor in Chester township. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Pautsch num-
bered twelve, our subject being the sixth in order of birth. The others are as
follows: Amelia, the widow of William Witte, of Trenton township; Johanah,
the wife of Friderich Witte, of Chester township ; William, who is a resident
of Waupun; Marie, the widow of Herman Schlieferd of Manley, Nebraska;
August, who is a resident of the same place; Wilhelmine, deceased; Eda, who
is the wife of Herman Detlaff, and resides in the vicinity of Minot, North
Dakota ; Herman, who lives on a farm in Chester township ; Martha, who mar-
ried William Rehwinkel, and lives near Louisville, Nebraska; Edward, who re-
sides on the old homestead with his father in Chester township; and Anton, who
is also a farmer of Chester township.
The boyhood and youth of Louis C. Pautsch were passed on his father's
farm, his education being acquired in the district schools. After leaving home
he worked out until he was twenty-nine years of age, thus acquiring the means
to enable him to become a property owner. He subsequently purchased a
tract of land in Chester township, and there engaged in general farming for
ten years in connection with. the pursuits of his business, which were the buying
and shipping of hay. At the expiration of that period he was elected to the
office of county clerk, the duties of which have since engrossed his entire
14
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
attention. At the primaries, in September, 1912, Mr. Pautsch was nominated
for county clerk for the fourth term, which is an evidence of his popularity,
as no one has ever before received a fourth nomination. He was reelected on
November 5, 1912, and is now serving his seventh consecutive year as county
clerk of Dodge county. He still holds the title to his farm, and in addition to this
he owns a residence property in Juneau He is also extensively interested in
the Juno Motor Truck Company, and is a stockholder in the State Bank of
Waupun, the Farmers Elevator Company of the same place, and the Atwater
Creamery Company. They are all thriving enterprises and annually yield grati-
fying dividends.
On the 14th of October, 1898, Mr. Pautsch was married to Miss Carolina
Graf, who was born in Burnett township, this county, and is a daughter of
John and Carolina (Nitschke) Graf. The father is a native of Germany and
the mother of Williamstown township, this county. For many years he was
actively engaged in farming, but he is now living retired in Hustisford. The
mother passed away in 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Louis Pautsch have had two sons:
Martin, who was born January 1, 1901, and died in infancy; and Friderich, whose
natal day was the 20th of January, 1906.
The family attend the Lutheran church, in the faith of which the parents
were reared. Carl Pautsch, the father of our subject, has always taken an active
interest in the work of this denomination, and was one of the organizers of
the church in Hubbard township and also in Burnett. The political indorse-
ment of Mr. Pautsch is given to the democratic party and he held the office of
treasurer in Chester township during the period of his residence there. He
is a practical man of good judgment and systematic methods and has proven
efficient and competent in the discharge of his official duties, as is evidenced
by the length of his period of service.
EDGAR BOEING.
Edgar Boeing, president of the village of Hustisford, is also a prominent
factor in financial circles as the chief executive officer of the Hustisford State
Bank, which position he has occupied since the organization of the institu-
tion in 1901. General agricultural pursuits claimed his attention in earlier
years and brought him a gratifying measure of prosperity. He is well known
as one of the native sons of Dodge county, his birth having occurred in Hustis-
ford township on the 19th of August, 1854. His parents, Emil and Julia
(Voss) Boeing, were born, reared and married in Germany. In 1849 they
crossed the Atlantic to the United States and, making their way to this county,
located on a farm three and a half miles south of the village of Hustisford,
where Emil Boeing continued to reside until called to his final rest. His wife
passed away at the home of her daughter in Black Creek, Wisconsin. They
were the parents of five children, as follows: Edgar, of this review; Emma,
who is the wife of Emil V. Grunigen and resides on a farm near Black Creek ;
Robert, who is engaged in the jewelry business in Hustisford; Ernst, a con-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
15
tractor and builder of Hedley, British Columbia ; and Hugo, who is associated
with his brother Ernst in the contracting business at Hedley.
Edgar Boeing obtained his early education in the district schools of his na-
tive township and later continued his studies in the Watertown high school
He likewise pursued a short course in the Spencerian Business College. When
a youth of eighteen he undertook the management of the home farm, remain-
ing under the parental roof until twenty-eight years of age or until the time^
of his marriage. He then rented the homestead property and subsequently
purchased the same, being actively and successfully engaged in its operation
until 1898, when he put aside the work of the fields and took up his abode in
Hustisford. He lived retired for several years or until the organization of the
Hustisford State Bank in 1901, of which he became president. In that ca-
pacity he has served to the present time, his excellent business ability and keen
discernment being potent factors in the continued growth and success of the
institution. He likewise acts as the president of the Hustisford Canning Com-
pany and owns a farm west of the village which he leases to that concern. His
business interests have thus been varied and in their capable control he has
won a well merited degree of success.
On the 18th of October, 1882, Mr. Boeing was united in marriage to Miss
Angeline Baker, who was born in Hustisford township on the Oth of August,
1853, her parents being George and Deborah Baker, the former a native of New
York and the latter of Canada. Unto our subject and his wife was born one
child, who died in infancy.
In politics Mr. Boeing is independent. His fellow townsmen, recognising
his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust and re-
sponsibility and at the present time he is serving as president of the village of
Hustisford, while for one term he has acted as chairman of the township board.
Fraternally he is identified with the Masonic order, belonging to the blue lodge
at Neosho, the chapter at Horicon and the commandery at Watertown. He
has remained a resident of Dodge county from his birth to the present time
and enjoys an extensive and favorable acquaintance within its borders. His
wife, too, has always lived in this county and the circle of her friends is a
wide one.
THEODORE B. ROWELL.
Theodore B. Rowell is the president of the J. S. Rowell Manufacturing
Company and as such occupies a conspicuous position in business circles of
Beaver Dam, being at the head of the largest and most important productive
industry in the city. It is true that he entered upon a business already es-
tablished, but he has contributed much to its success, not only through the di-
rection of its financial affairs but also through his inventive genius, whereby
he has given to the world a number of new and valuable devices in the shape of
improvements in farm machinery.
Mr. Rowell was born in Goshen, Indiana, in 1845, and was brought to Beaver
Dam by his father, John S. Rowell, the founder and promoter of the business
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
which is now being conducted under the name of the J. S. Rowell Manufac-
turing Company. The father was born in the town of Spring Valley, Living-
ston county, New York, April I, 1825, and devoted the greater part of his life
to the invention and manufacture of farm machinery, in which he made such
progress that his name should be enrolled on the page's of fame by the side of
that of Cyrus H. McCormick and Jerome L Case. He was the patentee of the
(irst slip tooth ever used on a seeder and was the original patentee of the force
feed that is used on nearly all the seeders and drills made in this country.
At the present time the company holds forty patents on various' agricultural
implements. The business, however, was established on a small scale. Mr.
Rowell was a plow maker by trade but he was ambitious and energetic and
moreover he possessed inventive genius. After being for a time in Beaver Dam
he went to Milwaukee where he purchased a small amount of steel and iron,
which he hauled by team to this city. Here he established an iron foundry,
employing a few men including his nephew, Gifford Rowell. The plant was
originally devoted exclusively to the manufacture of plows which were sold to
the local trade. In 1858 he erected a new building to supplement the old build-
ing which he had purchased for four hundred dollars. In i860 he built a small
home for his family who had hitherto lived over the factory. About i860 he
brought forth what was probably the first successful broad case seeder ever
put upon the market and patented this. Its value soon met recognition and
it was sold largely over the middlewest. Later he began the manufacture of
•threshing machines called the Tiger and again his output found ready sale. He
afterward added to this hay racks, corn plows and general farm machinery.
The factory was greatly enlarged and its facilities increased to meet the grow-
ing demands of the trade and John S. Rowell lived to profit by the value of his
inventions and his extensive manufacturing interests. He had reached the age
of about eighty-three years when in 1908 he was called to his final rest. In
his family were six children, five of whom are still living: Theodore B. ; Samuel,
who is the vice president of the Rowell Manufacturing Company; Elizabeth,
who became the wife of Lyman Barber, but both are now deceased; Mrs. Lil-
lian Black, of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin ; and BcHc, who is the wife of R. W.
Hopkins, of Milwaukee.
The eldest son, Theodore B. Rowell, was a young lad at the time of the
removal to Beaver Dam, where he was reared and educated. He entered busi-
ness circles in connection with his father's foundry, familiarizing himself with
all of the departments of the business and developing his own inventive genius.
Mr. Rowell has secured many patents upon his inventions, which include the
spring device for gauging the depth of cultivator teeth, an angle sieve for fan-
ning mills and a machine for its manufacture, a grain drill feed for grain drills
and several others. He is continuously studying in order to perfect the ma-
chinery, and the Tiger machines of various kinds which are sent out by the
Rowell Manufacturing Company are now widely known. In fact the Tiger
drills and seeders arc considered second to none in the United States, creating
a demand for them not only over all the western wheat belt but also in Canada.
South America and Africa. The business has steadily increased and the plant
is now a most extensive enterprise, covering many acres. No other undertaking
has made the name of Heaver Dam so well known throughout the country than
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1?
the output of the J. S. Rowell Manufacturing Company. Theodore B. Rowell
was the vice president until his father's death, when he succeeded to the presi-
dency.
In 1869 occurred the marriage of Theodore Rowell and Miss Carrie Robin-
son. After her death he married Martha Clemm, of this city, and since her de-*
mise he has married Miss Eunice Huth, who was born in Port Washington,
Wisconsin. He has seven children, five of whom were born of the first mar-
riage, namely: Frank, who is associated with his father in business; Joseph,
a resident of Washington; Elizabeth, the wife of a Mr. Leslie, of Chicago;
Jerry, who resides in Beaver Dam; and Robert, also of Beaven Dam. The son
of the second marriage is Douglas, of Washington; and the daughter of the
present marriage is Dorothy, who is at home and is very proficient in music.
Mr. Rowell votes the republican ticket where national matters and issues
are involved but casts an independent local ballot. He served as alderman for
a short time and his attitude upon vital questions is always that of a progress-
ive, public-spirited man, yet his important business interests leave him no time
for cooperation in public affairs. He possesses marked executive ability with
keep power of discriminating between the essential and the non-essential, and
sound business judgment added to his inventive powers has made him one of
the most prominent and forceful representatives of business circles in Beaver
Dam.
HUBERT ROBERT MILLER.
Hubert Robert Miller, one of the representative citizens and successful
farmers, stock-raisers and dairymen of Emmet township, is owner of a well
improved farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 10. He is num-
bered among the worthy native sons of Dodge county and has always resided
on the farm which is now his home, his natal day being February 12, 1868.
His father, John Miller, was born, reared and married in Austria and in that
country became the father of seven children. In 1866 he crossed the Atlantic
to the United States, coming direct to Dodge county, Wisconsin, and purchas-
ing the place in Emmet township which is now in possession of his son Hubert.
With resolute purpose and indomitable industry he began the improvement of
the property and gradually developed an excellent farm, erecting thereon an
attractive and substantial brick residence and also putting up fences.
Hubert R. Miller was reared under the parental roof and obtained his early
education in the common schools, while later he attended high school at Water-
town. Subsequently he took charge of the home farm and has operated the
same continuously and successfully since. As time has passed he has made a
number of improvements, adding to and enlarging the barn and also erecting
substantial outbuildings. In connection with the cultivation of cereals he has
for a number of years been engaged in the dairy business, this branch of his
business yielding him a gratifying annual income. He raises high-grade Hol-
stein cattle, has some fine milch stock and is a stockholder in the cheese fac-
tory and in the Watertown Telephone Company. A man of good business abil-
ity and sound judgment, he has won prosperity in his undertakings as an agri-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
culturist and enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the progressive and es-
teemed citizens of his community.
On the 26th of May, 1897, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Amelia
Roffeis, who was born and reared in this county, her father being John P.
Roffeis, a sketch of whom appears on another page of this work. Our subject
and his wife have six children, four sons and two daughters, namely: Ray-
mond G, Philumania, John, William, Frank and Agatha.
Mr. Miller is a democrat and takes an active interest in local politics and
in matters relating to the public welfare. He was elected to the office of
assessor and by reelection was continued in that position until he had served
for five consecutive years as assessor of Emmet township, ever discharging his
duties in a highly commendable and satisfactory manner. He has also been
sent as a delegate to both county and state conventions and both in public and
in private life has manifested the sterling traits of character which everywhere
command respect and regard. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have always lived in this
county and are widely and favorably known here.
There is no more enviable title in the country today than that of veteran of
the Civil war. We honor the few surviving heroes of that conflict for their
valor, patience and enduring loyalty and respect them for their unselfish service.
No one is more entitled to recognition in this respect than Charles H. Eggleston,
who for three years fought in his country's cause and closed his service only at
the end of the hostilities. He does not, however, rest his only claim to distinction
upon his military record. His life since his discharge has been spent in busi-
ness in Fox Lake up to the time of his retirement and has been a worthy sequel
to his career as a soldier. Mr. Eggleston is a native of England and was born
in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, on the 4th of August, 1835, a son of Thomas
G. and Deborah (Austin) Eggleston, who left their native country about 1837
and came to America. They settled in Utica, New York, where they remained
for one year before coming to Wisconsin. They resided in Milwaukee for a
short time, the father working as a contracting mason. He built the first brick
house in Milwaukee about the year 1838 and was also responsible for the con-
struction of the first lighthouse in the state, erected at what is now Kenosha.
Eventually he moved to Pewaukee and later to Waukesha, working at his trade
in both cities. In Waukesha he rebuilt the courthouse and did much construc-
tion work for the railroads. His residence in Fox Lake dated from 1855, in
which year he established himself and his family in that city, being influenced
in his removal, by securing a contract to erect the Wisconsin Female College.
This structure was later destroyed by fire and never rebuilt and its ruins arc-
standing at the present time. The father of our subject made his home in Fox
Lake until his death, which occurred in 1892, in the eighty-fourth year of his age.
His wife survived him two years, passing away when she was eighty-seven years
old. Both are buried in the Waushara cemetery.
Charles H. Eggleston is the eldest in a family of six children. He began
his education in the Wisconsin public schools and completed it in Carl College
CHARLES H. EGGLESTON.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
21
at Waukesha. When he laid aside his books he clerked in the postoffice for about
a year and later entered the employ of a local grain dealer. In 1862 he enlisted
in Company E, Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served until
the close of the war. He was wounded at the battle of Fort Gibson on May
1, 1863, having been shot through the right lung. He was taken to the Union
hospital at Memphis and was disabled until after the surrender at Vicksburg.
General Grant gave a furlough to all wounded soldiers and Mr. Eggleston took
advantage of this and returned home. Upon the expiration of his furlough he
reported at the hospital at Madison and was discharged in the latter part of
December, 1863. Returning home, he was assigned to duty in the recruiting
service in this state and did not return to his regiment until March, 1864, when
he joined General Banks on his Red River expedition. After the battle of
Sabine Cross Roads on April 28, 1864, they went to the Mississippi river and
Mr. Eggleston's regiment saw service in Mississippi, Missouri and Louisiana
and was in Alabama at the time of Lee's surrender. During his period of
military activity the subject of this review took part in many battles and skirmishes
and was promoted from the position of private to that of corporal and then to
sergeant, was made orderly sergeant and then second lieutenant and was mus-
tered out at Shreveport, Louisiana, on the 22d of June, 1865, as first lieutenant
of his regiment and received his discharge at Madison, Wisconsin, on the 7th
of July in the same year. He immediately returned to Fox Lake, where in
1866 he established himself in the retail lumber business, continuing his identi-
fication with this line of activity and being constantly successful until January
t, 1912, when he sold his interests and retired from active life.
In 1866 Mr. Eggleston was united in marriage to Miss Susan B. Blaisdell, a
daughter of Oliver Blaisdell, of Bennington, New York. She was the eldest
of three children and was born on July 22, 1834. She passed away on June 25,
191 1, and is buried in Waushara cemetery at Fox Lake.
Mr. Eggleston gives his political allegiance to the republican party and his
loyalty and disinterestedness have been rewarded by his election to various village
offices. There is hardly a line of legitimate activity in this section of the state
in which his name is not well known. He is a stockholder in the State Bank
of Fcx Lake and holds the office of president in that organization. He is also
president of the Fox Lake Canning Company and holds the same office on the
board of trustees of Wayland University. As trustee of Downer College he
has added to his laurels gained in Wayland University and has ably promoted
the cause of education. He is a stockholder in the Marine National Bank of
Milwaukee and in the Malleable Iron Works of Beaver Dam. He is also inter-
ested in the Beaver Dam Gas & Light Company and in the Milwaukee Western
Electric Railroad Company, gaining by his activities in these various enterprises
recognition as a shrewd and able business man of remarkable discrimination.
He is a member of the Baptist church and has served on the board of trustees
for almost thirtyrfive years. Fraternally he belongs to the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows and has been a member of this organization for forty years and
secretary of his lodge for thirty-five years. He has occupied all the chairs and
is a member of the Encampment. He is actively interested in the affairs of the
Grand Army of the Republic, being prominent and well known among his
comrades. He has been a business man practically all his active liie and his
vol. n-i
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
character has been influenced by the alertness of attention and the force of
concentration which successful business activity requires. He is an unassuming,
straightforward and intelligent man who has sought tangible prosperity by the
usual methods but who is distinguished by the fact that his energies have always
been honorably directed and his high position worthily achieved.
Christian W. Docter, photographer at Mayville, was born in Kenosha, Wis-
consin, September 30, 1868. His father, John Docter, a native of the Rhine
country of Germany, was brought to America in 1843 when but two years of
age. After the outbreak of the Civil war he enlisted on the 28th day of August,
1861, and for three years served at the front with a Wisconsin regiment. When
wounded he returned home but when he regained his health he reenlisted on
the 1st of April, 1865, as a member of Company G, Eighth Wisconsin Infantry,
with which he remained until mustered out on the 31st of March, 1866. He
was a carpenter by trade and while working on a church steeple in Kenosha
fell and his death resulted. This was in the year 1877. His wife, who bore
the maiden name of Elizabeth Stantz, is still living.
Christian W. Docter acquired his education in the district and parochial
schools. He was early employed by a spring bed manufacturer at Kenosha and
afterward took up the study of photography in the photograph gallery of Ben
LaMarsche, in Kenosha. There he remained until 1889, when he started out
in business on his own account and has since been located at Mayville. He
has a well equipped studio and does excellent work so that he is accorded a
liberal patronage.
On the 20th of May, 1890, Mr. Docter was married to Miss Anna R. Moeller,
a daughter of Joseph Moeller, of Kenosha, who was a blacksmith by trade but
is now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Docter have become the parents of five chil-
dren: John C, living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Adelaide; Rudolph; Helen;
and Viola. Mr. Docter has been a lifelong resident of this state and in his life
manifests the sterling qualities of the citizen of the middle west, being alert,
enterprising and progressive. He has made good use of his time and talents
and has met with a measure of success which is the merited regard of his
persistent labor and his skill.
Probably no one citizen of Dodge county has contributed more largely
toward the general progress and development of the community along educa-
tional lines than John Kelley, the editor of the Juneau Telephone, who is now
serving his sixth term as county superintendent of schools. In the latter ca-
pacity he has been a strong factor in influencing and molding the characters
CHRISTIAN W. DOCTER.
JOHN KELLEY.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
-2,3
of the youth, while through the medium of the columns of his paper he has
striven to implant in both old and young not only better standards of citizen-
ship, but a due recognition of the important part played in life by these ele-
ments without the material world.
He is of Irish extraction but was born in Oneida county, New York, his
natal day being the 22d of September, 1852, and his parents Martin and Mary
(Keeley) Kelley. They were born, reared and married in County Galway,
Ireland, which was also the birthplace of their six eldest children. The father
was born on the nth of May, 1804, and the mother some ten years later. Farm-
ing largely engaged his attention and he was also an overseer of public works,
but neither proved very lucrative, and feeling that he should like to provide his
children with better advantages than he could possibly procure for them in
the old country, he decided to come to America. He took passage for the United
States in 1847, locating in Oneida county, New York, where he was joined two
years later by his wife and children. They made that their home until 1853,
when they continued their journey westward to Wisconsin, settling on a farm
in Shields township, this county. There, both parents passed the remainder of
their lives, the father's death occurring in November, 1891, and that of the
mother in July, 1896. Mr. Kelley enjoyed the full rights of citizenship, and at
one time served as supervisor of his township, among the citizens of which he
was highly esteemed and numbered many friends. There were seven daugh-
ters and two sons in the Kelley family, all of whom are now deceased with the
exception of three: Ellen, the wife of Patrick King, of Chicago; John, our
subject ; and Anna, who is residing at Richwood, near the old homestead, where
the family still owns some valuable property.
John Kelley accompanied his parents on their removal to Dodge county and
has ever since made his home in this state. He was a child of only one year
when they located in Shields township, where he was reared to manhood
and received his early education. When he was eighteen he left school and
began his career as an educator. For three years thereafter he taught in his
home township, thus acquiring the money to enable him to continue his
studies. At the end of that time he enrolled in the normal school at Platt-
ville, being graduated from this institution in June, 1877. This event conferred
upon him the additional distinction of being the first citizen of Dodge county
to have received a normal school diploma. Returning home he taught for two
years thereafter in Richwood, going from there to Fox Lake, where he held
the position of high-school principal for three years, subsequently serving in
the same capacity for a like- period at Horicon. His next removal was to
Juneau, where he purchased the paper he has ever since been editing. For a
time he was not actively connected with educational affairs, giving his atten-
tion almost entirely to the publication of his paper. From 1892 to 1806, he was
enrolling clerk in the house of representatives at Washington, D. C, and in
1900 was elected county superintendent of schools. As he gave efficient and
capable service in this connection he was reelected at the expiration of his term
and has ever since been the incumbent of the office. Mr. Kelley has always
been deeply interested in the public schools, and even when not actively con-
nected with educational work kept in touch with the theories and ideas of our
leading authorities on school matters. He fully recognizes and appreciates the
24
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
merits and deficiencies of the present educational system, and being a practical
man of progressive ideas is striving to meet the needs and requirements of the
period. That he is succeeding is evidenced by the favor in which he is held
throughout the county as well as by the results he is achieving. As the common
schools have been established for the benefit of all the youth of the commuhity,
it has been his effort to try to adapt them to meet the needs of the majority
rather than the few, and to this end he is directing his endeavors with good
results. Mr. Kelley has won much more than local renown as an educator and
in 1909 served as president of the Wisconsin State Teachers Association, and
for a time he was also official visitor to the normal schools of the state. His
attention is now almost entirely devoted to his official duties, although he is
still managing and editing his paper, the columns of which are given to the
support of every worthy and commendable movement.
Mr. Kelley has been twice married, his first union being with Miss Jennie
F. McGuire, of Chicago, the event being celebrated on the 24th of August,
1880. She was. born on August 15, 1852, and was a daughter of Patrick Mc-
Guire, a carpenter and contractor. Two children were born of this marriage:
Mary Frances, whose birth occurred on May 31, 1881, now the wife of D. E.
McLane, principal of the West Bend high school; and John Edward, whose
natal day was the 2d of July, 1882, a practicing physician of Chicago. The
mother passed away on the 1 ith of August, 1907. On the 30th of June, 1910,
Mr. Kelley was married to his present wife, whose maiden name was Clara
A. Purcell. She was born in Waupun, this state, on the 24th of July, 1876,
and is a daughter of Thomas and Charlotta (Bushee) Purcell. The father is
now engaged in mining in Idaho, where he has resided for several years, but
the mother has long been deceased, having passed away during the infancy of
her daughter. To Mr. and Mrs. Kelley there has been born one child, Kath-
leen Veronica, whose birth occurred on the 16th of April, 1912.
The parents are communicants of the Roman Catholic church, and fra-
ternally he is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Order of For-
esters. Catholic Knights of Wisconsin and the Modern Woodmen of America.
In his political views he is stanchly loyal to the principles of the democratic
party, and takes an active interest in all local affairs. Mr. Kelley wields a
strong influence throughout the county through the medium of the columns of
his paper, which are as readily used to denounce wrong as to commend good.
He is broad-minded and charitable in his judgment and endeavors to place
before his readers an honest and just report of all matters of public interest.
The late Philander White, who passed away at Rolling Prairie on the 7th
of March, 1900, was one of the early settlers of Burnett township. Dodge
county. He was a native of the state of New York, his birth having occurred
in Steuben county on April 7, 1823. and a son of Peter and Rebecca White, who
were likewise natives of the Empire state, where they passed their entire lives.
PHILANDER WHITE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY 25
Philander White was reared and educated in the county of his nativity, sub-
sequently turning his attention to agricultural pursuits. He remained a resident
of New York state until 1863, when he came to Wisconsin, locating in Dodge
county. Soon thereafter he purchased land in Burnett township, which he
cultivated for three years. At the expiration of that period he sold his holdings
there, investing the proceeds in a farm in Oak Grove township. After residing
on this place for a short time he removed to Beaver Dam, where he made his
home for four years, but still engaged in the operation of his farm in Trenton
township. His next removal was to Columbia county, this state, where he con-
tinued in agricultural pursuits for nineteen years, meeting with a good measure
of success. Having attained the venerable age of seventy-five years, in 1898
he left his farm and went to Rolling Prairie, this county, spending his remaining
days in well earned ease and rest.
Mr. White was twice married. To him and his first wife there were born
six children: George, who is a resident of Beaver Dam; Merick, who is living
in Rockford, Illinois ; LeRoy, who is in the west ; Lawrence and Darius, who are
deceased ; and Lloyd, who resides in Wyocena, this state. On the 27th of
March, 1864, Mr. White was married to Miss Eliza M. Phillips, who was born
and reared in this county, her natal day being the 16th of February, 1847. She
is a daughter of Ralph and Mary (Hand) Phillips, well known pioneers of Oak
Grove township. The father was born in Newtown, Pennsylvania, on the 7th
of May, 1816, while the mother's birth occurred in the state of New York on
February I, 1820. They were married in Orange county, New York, where they
resided until 1845, when they came to Wisconsin, casting their lot with the
pioneers of Oak Grove township. There they passed the remainder of their
lives, the father's death occurring on April 8, 1897, and that of the mother on
the 13th of April, 1910. To them were born seven children, Mrs. White being
the fourth in order of birth. Mrs. White continued to reside in Rolling Prairie
after the death of her husband until 1906, when she disposed of her property
there and removed to Horicon, where she now makes her home.
The political support of Mr. White was accorded to the democratic party,
and while residing in Beaver Dam he served as alderman from the Fourth ward.
He was a man of unusual energy and perseverance, but of a somewhat retiring
nature and never figured prominently in local politics. He was not remiss in
matters of citizenship, however, but took an active interest in the welfare of
the community and the development of its public utilities.
MICHAEL A. JACOBS.
Michael A. Jacobs is well known as a lumber merchant of Beaver Dam, yet
many and varied interests aside from the lumber trade occupy his time and
attention and profit by his cooperation. In a word he is one of the prominent
and representative business men of Dodge county, occupying a central place on
the stage of activity, his labors constituting an element in public prosperity as
well as individual success. He was born in this county, March 26, i860, a son
of Michael and Catherine (Hartzhein) Jacobs, both of whom were natives of
20
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
lthenish Prussia, Germany, but who did not become acquainted until after their
emigration to the new world, their marriage being celebrated in Dodge county
in 1856. It was in 1848 that the father arrived in Wisconsin, landing at Green
Bay, whence he walked to Beaver Dam. He was afterward a resident of Mus-
kegon, Michigan, for eight years, and then went to Lomira, Dodge county,
where he purchased a farm upon which he resided until 1867. In that year he
established his home near Beaver Dam, purchasing a farm upon which he resided
until 1889. He afterward lived retired in that city until 1907, when he was
called to his final rest at the age of eighty-four years. He had long survived
his wife, who passed away in 1873. She was a daughter of Henry and Gertrude
Hartzhein, who came to Dodge county in 1847, traveling with ox teams from
Milwaukee. They, too, were natives of Germany and became pioneer residents
of Dodge county, purchasing land in Theresa township, where Mr. Hartzhein
followed farming until his death in 1864. His wife lived until 1893 and wa s
ninety-three years of age at the time of her demise. In the family of Michael
and Catherine (Hartzhein) Jacobs were eight children, of whom three died in
infancy, the others being: Mrs. Mary Ott, of St. Cloud, Wisconsin; Michael A.;
Mrs. Henry Fuesing, of Beaver Dam; Mrs. H. R. Heimler, also of Beaver Dam,
and John C, of Chicago.
Michael A. Jacobs was instructed in both English and German by his mother
and received the further educational opportunity of attending parochial and
public school, while for one term he was an attendant in Mount Calvary Col-
lege. He was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the best methods
of tilling the soil, and continued on the farm until twenty-seven years of age.
In 1887, in connection with Peter Roedl and John W. Hall he purchased the
lumber yard of D. Dickinson & Company and has since been active in the busi-
ness. Mr. Hall, however, withdrew in 1893. The firm handles a general line
of lumber, building materials and fuel, and theirs is one of the extensive enter-
prises of this character in the city/ their plant covering one and three-quarter
acres while employment is furnished to ten or twelve men. The business has
grown continuously year by year and the success of the enterprise is attributable
in no small measure to the keen business discernment and capable direction of
Mr. Jacobs. His ability has been widely recognized in other connections and
his cooperation has been sought in promoting many commercial, industrial and
financial concerns. He organized the German National Bank and was its cashier
from 1 89 1 until 1894 inclusive, save for eleven months, when he was away from
Beaver Dam in 1893. He is still one of its directors and is a director of the
Milwaukee Western Electric Railroad Company, of the Malleable Iron Range
Company and the Beaver Dam Malleable Iron Company. He is likewise a
director of the Woolen Manufacturing Company and is secretary, treasurer
and one of the directors of the Sun Coal Company, owning and operating mines
at Caryville, Tennessee.
His extensive and important business interests do not preclude his coopera-
tion with interests of a public character. He is a director of the Williams Free
Library and has been somewhat prominent in public office to which he has been
elected as a candidate of the democratic party. He served as township clerk
while on the farm in 1884, 1885 and 1886, and was county clerk from 1888 until
1802. inclusive. He was also chief clerk of the general land office in 1893 and
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
27
at the same time was World's Fair commissioner for the interior department.
He had charge of the opening of the Cherokee district in Oklahoma, September
16, 1893, and in 1898 he was elected to the state senate. In 1906 he was chosen
mayor of Beaver Dam for a two years' term and gave to the city a prompt
and businesslike administration, during which he put in the first brick pavement
in the city. His cooperation could always be counted upon to further progressive
public movements and his work has been followed by practical and beneficial
results.
On the 26th of November, 1884, Mr. Jacobs was married to Miss Theresa
M. Flasch, of Fond du Lac county, a daughter of John M. and Elizabeth (Gales)
Flasch, both of whom were natives of Germany and came to the United States
in 1847. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs were born ten children, six of whom are
yet living, while two died in infancy and one at the age qf fifteen years. Those
who survive are Peter R., Albert F., Edward H., Agnes M., Michael J., and
John B. Mr. Jacobs and his family are members of St. Peter's Catholic church
and he is a prominent representative of the Catholic Knights, being state treas-
urer of the organization. He also belongs to St. Peter's Benevolent Society and
is much interested in charitable work. In fact he has always been willing to
use his means to a reasonable extent for the benefit of others, feeling a deep
and sincere interest in the welfare of his fellow townsmen. His record as a
public official and as a merchant are alike commendable and in every relation of
life he has commanded the respect and received the esteem of those with whom
he has come in contact.
CARL HILGENDORF.
Carl Hilgendorf, who is the present incumbent of the office of county treas-
urer, was for many years actively and successfully engaged in agricultural pur-
suits in Oak Grove township, where he owns a valuable farm. He is one of the
estimable citizens Germany has furnished Dodge county, his birth having oc-
curred in the province of Pommern, on the 2d of February, 1854. His par-
ents, William and Frederica (Richardt) Hilgendorf, were born, reared and
married in the same province, the father's natal day being the 28th of October,
1828, and the mother's January 3, 1827. The father, who was a carpenter,
emigrated to the United States with his family in 1868, first locating in Theresa
township, this county, where he followed his trade for four years. At the ex-
piration of that period he bought a tract of land in Oak Grove township, giving
his undivided attention to its further improvement and cultivation during the
remainder of his active life. He passed away on his farm on the 28th of
November, 1892, and the mother on the 13th of February, 1895. They were the
parents of seven children, of whom our subject is the eldest. In order of birth
the others are as follows: August, who is a contractor in Juneau; William, de-
ceased; Herman, who follows the mason's trade and also conducts a general
mercantile store in the village of Oak Grove ; John, a carpenter contractor re-
siding in California; Ulrike, the wife of Herman Zimmerman, a retired farmer;
and Ernest, a carpenter of Mcnomonee, Wisconsin.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
The education of Carl Hilgendorf was acquired in the common schools of
his native land, which he attended until he accompanied his parents to America
at the age of fourteen years. He subsequently learned the carpenter's trade
from his father, whom he also assisted with the cultivation of the home farm,
remaining with his parents until he was married. For eight years thereafter
he followed his trade, but at the expiration of that time he bought the old
homestead from his father and once more turned his attention to agricultural
pursuits. His energies were entirely devoted to diversified farming and stock-
raising from that period until the autumn of 1910, when he was elected to his
present office. Prior to entering upon his official duties he removed to Juneau,
where he owns a very attractive, modern residence and here he expects to pass
the remainder of his life. Mr. Hilgendorf has met with success in his under-
takings and holds the title to two hundred and five acres of farm land in this
county. He is also financially interested in the Essmann Cheese Company, of
which he has been secretary for twenty-five years, and is a stockholder and the
present treasurer of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Juneau.
On the 19th of December, 1878, Mr. Hilgendorf was married to Miss
Louisa Schrap, who was born in Lomira township, this county, on the 16th of
April, 1856. She is a daughter of Carl and Henrietta (Aloerike) Schrap, na-
tives of Germany, and well known pioneer farming people of Oak Grove
township, where they resided until 1893. In the latter year they came to
Juneau and here the father is now living retired at the age of seventy-nine
years, the mother being two years his junior. Six children have been born to
Mr. and Mrs. Hilgendorf: Ida, the wife of Herman Ihde, of Juneau; Eddie,
who married Frances Krauth and resides in Hubbard township; Emil, who
married Martha Rupnow and is residing on one of his father's farms in Oak
Grove township; and Martha, Adcla and Alma, all of whom are residing at home.
The family belong to the Lutheran church, of which Mr. Hilgendorf was
treasurer for eleven years. Politically he indorses the democratic party. He is
public-spirited in matters of citizenship and has always taken an interest in
local politics, having served as treasurer of his township for one year and as
chairman for seven. He is a man of practical ideas and clear judgment, whose
energies were intelligently directed toward the achievement of a definite pur-
pose, which he attained. In the discharge of his official duties he is manifesting
the same qualities that characterized him in the development of his private in-
terests, and is therefore fully equal to his responsibilities.
With the passing away of John G. P.achhuber on the 27th of March, 191.2,
the city of Juneau sustained the loss of one of her most estimable citizens
Although a lawyer by profession, during the greater period of his residence
here he had figured prominently in local political affairs. At the time of his
demise, and for five years prior to that, he held the office of mayor, and in
this as in other public capacities he made a record which not only proved him
JOHN G. BACIIHL'BER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
29
to be a trustworthy and reliable servant of the people but, what is of still
greater importance, a man of honor and unquestionable integrity.
He was one of Dodge county's native sons, his birth having occurred at
Farmerville, Leroy township, on the 8th of March, 1868. He was of German
extraction, however, his parents, Max and Theresa (Engle) Bachhuber, having
been born in Bavaria. They were married in Milwaukee, but later removed
to this county, where for some years the father engaged in farming. He sub-
sequently conducted a hotel and general mercantile store at Farmerville, how-
ever, being actively identified with the business interests of that community
until his death on February 2, 1879. The mother, who was born on March
30, 1837, is still living and now makes her home in Mayville, this county.
John G. Bachhuber was reared in the simple, unpretentious country home
of that period, and early had instilled in his youthful mind the necessity of
forming habits of thrift and industry, while the importance of honesty in the
successful pursuit of a career was often dwelt upon. His education was begun
in the common schools of Leroy township, following which he attended the
Catholic parochial school at Farmerville and the high school of Mayville. He
had long been attracted toward the profession of law and subsequently matricu-
lated in the University of Wisconsin, where he pursued his professional studies,
being awarded his degree with the class of 1888. Upon his admission to the
bar, he returned to Mayville, this county, maintaining an office there for three
years. At the expiration of that time he came to Juneau where he continued his
practice and also identified himself with local political activities. He was also
connected with various business enterprises, and served for thirteen years as
secretary of the Wisconsin Hail and Cyclone Insurance Company, while he was
a stockholder in the Juneau Investment Company and the Citizens Bank.
He was a stanch democrat in politics and began his public career as city
clerk of Mayville. Later he was made register of probate and in 1893 he was
appointed to fill out the unexpired term of Judge Lamoreaux as county judge.
For several years he represented his ward in the city council, and he also served
as chief of the Dodge county fire marshals. In each and every instance he
maintained the dignity of his office and adequately met its responsibilities, dis-
charging his duties in a highly creditable manner. He was a man of practical
ideas, sound principles and high standards, and so far as lay within his power
gave the people good and efficient service. He was permanently located here
and took a personal interest in forwarding the development of the community,
and conscientiously strove to meet the requirements of his official position by
supporting every movement the adoption of which he felt would prove bene-
ficial to the majority.
At Mayville on the 21st of September, 1891, Mr. Bachhuber was united
in marriage to Miss Marie de Vantier, who was born in the vicinity of Berlin,
Germany, on the 1st of November, 1869. She is a daugther of Frederick and
Bertha (Gcnsmer) de Vantier, who were born, reared and married in the same
section of Germany. There the father, who was a day laborer, died on March
1. 1879, and the following year the mother emigrated to America with her
children. She came direct to Dodge county, locating in Mayville, but now
resides in Juneau. Upon the death of the father the responsibility of sup-
porting and educating the family devolved entirely upon the mother, who worked
80
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
for other people, doing whatever she could to earn an honest living for her-
self and children. They were all given the best advantages she could provide
them, and grew up to be a credit to her and the community. There were two
sons and a daughter, Mrs. Bachhuber being the youngest of the family. The elder
son, Charles, is now superintendent in the shops of the Great Northern Rail-
way at St. Paul, Minnesota ; Fred, who is the second in order of birth, is a
baker by trade and makes his home in Juneau with the mother. To Mr. and
Mrs. Bachhuber there were born five children: Alice, Irene, Norma and Har-
old, all of whom are at home; and John, the fourth in order of birth, who was
born on August 28, 1903, and died four months later.
In 1909, Mr. Bachhuber erected the residence now occupied by his widow
and family, which is one of the most pretentious and modern houses in the
town. Some years previous he built the house on the lot adjoining, being at
the time of his death the owner of four residence properties in Juneau and a
fine farm in Burnett township. He had made further provision for the pro-
tection of those dependent upon him through the medium of his connection
with the Modern Woodmen of America fraternity, thus leaving a competence
that fully provides for the needs of his entire family. Mr. Bachhuber was
highly esteemed and had many friends in Juneau, where he was known as a
man who was always ready and willing to serve the community in any capacity
in which he was needed. At the time of his death he held the highest position
in the municipality and he was also a member of the fire department, which
fact most clearly manifests that he never shirked any recognized duty.
JOHN F. RIEGE.
John F. Riege, manager of the elevator of the Milwaukee Elevator Company
located at Horicon, was born in the province of Pomerania, Germany, on the 15th
of August, 1873. His parents, Erdmann and Minnie (Feit) Riege, were born,
reared and married, in Pomerania, where the father followed the vocation of
shepherd. They were hard-working, thrifty people, and desiring to give their
children the benefit of better opportunities than they' felt were afforded in the
more congested sections of their native land resolved to come to America. It
required much self-denial and careful management to save the necessary passage
money from the father's meager earnings, but at last it was achieved and in the
spring of 1875 they sailed for the United States. They came direct to Horicon,
where the father worked as a laborer on the railroad and also for the farmers
in this vicinity. Subsequently he was able to begin farming for himself as a
renter, his efforts in this direction proving so lucrative that he was later able
to buy land in Burnett township. Diligently he applied himself to the further
improvement and development of his farm until 1908, when he sold it to his son,
John and removed to a smaller place located just outside the corporate limits of
Horicon in Oak Grove township. Here he passed away on the 2d of May, 1910.
He had long survived the mother, whose death occurred on March 28, 1900. To
this worthy couple were born nine children, our subject being the eighth in
order of birth.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
31
John F. Riege was not yet two years of age when his parents located in
Dodge county, where he was reared to manhood and has passed the greater part
of his life. In the acquirement of an education he attended the district schools
of Burnett township during the winter months and in summer assisted with the
work of the farm. At the age of sixteen years* he left the parental roof and
started out to make his own way in the world. Being unfamiliar with any
occupation save that of farming he sought employment with the agriculturists
in this vicinity, continuing to follow this line of work for five years. In 1894
he came to Horicon and entered the employ of Charles Kuehn, manager of the
elevator. He continued in his employ in the capacity of assistant for six years,
and as he applied himself intelligently to the discharge of his duties acquired
sufficient knowledge of the business to later secure his present position. Upon
leaving the service of Mr. Kuehn he returned to the home farm, and for three
years thereafter confined his attention to the tilling of the fields and care of the
crops. At the end of that period he was offered the position of manager of the
elevator at Horicon by the Milwaukee Elevator Company, and has ever since
had charge of their business at this point. That he has proven efficient is sub-
stantially evidenced by the length of his connection with the company, and the
amount of business he annually handles. In the development of his personal
interests, Mr. Riege manifests the same sound judgment and general capability
which characterize his management of the affairs of others. As a result he has
acquired a good residence property in Horicon and a small farm in Oak Grove
township, the one on which his father was living at the time of his death, and he
also holds title to the old family homestead in Burnett township.
On the 21 st of November, 1900, Mr. Riege was married to Miss Anna Thome,
who was born in Theresa township on the 16th of May, 1870. She is a daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Thome, natives of Germany, who emigrated to the
United States in early life, subsequently locating in Theresa township. There
the father acquired land and engaged in farming until his death which occurred
on the 19th of July, 1909.
Mr. and Mrs. Riege are members of the German Lutheran church, and
jjolitically he is a democrat. An agreeable man of accommodating man-
ner, he has many friends in Horicon and the surrounding country, where he is
widely known and has established a reputation for straightforwardness and
absolute integrity.
EDWARD BEICHI-.
Edward Beichl is the president of the Beaver Dam Manufacturing Com-
pany, owning and controlling one Of the most extensive and important pro-
ductive industries of the city. His business record is such as any man might
l>c proud to possess, for he started out in life for himself at the age of four-
teen years and has since been dependent upon his own resources. He has
never deviated from a course which his judgment has sanctioned as right,
has carefully met every obligation and filled every engagement and enjoys in
unusual measure the regard and good will of colleagues and contemporaries.
32
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Wisconsin claims him as a native son, for his birth occurred in Milwaukee,
January 17, 1864, his parents being Edward and Theresa Beichl. They had
a family of five children, the others being Charles, Richard, Emma and Otto,
all of Beaver Dam. The father was the first man to number the houses of
Milwaukee. He was also a portrait painter and devoted a portion of his life
to agricultural pursuits.
His son and namesake pursued his education in the public schools of Tren-
ton, Wisconsin, but put aside his text-books at the age of fourteen years and
became connected with a dry-goods business. Possessing laudable ambition
and determined purpose, he gradually worked his way upward and for twenty
years he was successfully engaged in the real-estate business in Beaver Dam
and Milwaukee. He is still interested in real-estate holdings and owns some
valuable property, from which he derives a substantial income. Of recent
years, however, he has concentrated his efforts more exclusively upon manu-
facturing interests. In 1901 he and his brother joined Charles Calkhirst and
N. R. Nelson in forming a partnership for the manufacture of seeders and
cultivators. This business was incorporated in 1903 with a capital stock of
twenty-five thousand dollars. From the outset the undertaking prospered, ow-
ing to the careful management of its promoters, and its growth is indicated
in the fact that on the 13th of July, 1906, the capital stock was increased to
fifty thousand dollars; on the 13th of June, 1908, to one hundred thousand
dollars; and on the 24th of June, 191 1, to two hundred thousand dollars, which
is the present capitalization. In 1903 the company erected a building one
hundred and ten by forty feet and in 1904 built a two-story brick building
forty by sixty feet. Still this did not give them adequate space, and in 1906
was added a one-story building thirty-four by eighty feet. The constant growth
of their trade still demanded larger quarters and in 1910 they erected a brick
building sixty by one hundred and sixty-eight feet and a warehouse sixty
by one hundred and twenty feet. In 191 1 a wood shop was built, sixty by
one hundred and ten feet, a stock room, sixty by one hundred and sixty-eight
feet, a lumber shed, forty by one hundred and sixty-eight feet, and their power
house is thirty by forty feet. They have a steam plant and generate their own
electricity. During this time there has been invested forty thousand dollars
in new and modern machinery. The plant is lighted by electricity and heated
by steam and they own their own water power and fire protection. They
manufacture drills, seeders, cultivators and harrows and their trademark is
"Ideal." In the first year of the company's existence they manufactured but
ten machines, which were sold to the county and state trade. They soon found
that satisfied patrons were the best advertisement and such was the reputation
of the machines which they sent out that the next year their sale had increased
to one hundred and the third to three hundred, while the present year will
witness an output of eight thousand machines. During this time the company
has developed single and double disc drills and a machine to which fertilizers
can be attached and a device that will sow any grain from flax to peas. The
product of the factory is sent throughout Wisconsin, North and South Da-
kota, Minnesota. Montana. Washington, Oregon, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Texas,
Iowa. Indiana and Ohio, and they employ about one hundred and sixty men.
The business was incorporated under the laws of Wisconsin and the present
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
33
officers are Edward Beichl, president; Lawrence Fitch, vice president; R. C.
Inman, secretary; and Charles Beichl, treasurer. Theirs is today one of the
largest manufacturing concerns of this kind, not only of Beaver Dam, but of
this part of the state, and the business has constituted an important feature
in promoting the industrial activity and consequent prosperity of Dodge county.
In February, 1898, Edward Beichl was married to Miss Jennie B. Rowell,
a daughter of Ira and Mary I. Rowell and a sister of Mrs. Edla Inman, Wal-
den I. Rowell, of Chicago, and Ira Rowell, of Detroit. Mr. and Mrs. Beichl
occupy a very prominent social position and their beautiful home is noted for
its attractive and warm-hearted hospitality. Energetic, farseeing, honest and
public-spirited, in his business career he has operated boldly and continuously
and by the stimulus of his exertions has aroused the enterprise of others
and through this means has added to his own labors and furnished hundreds
of workmen with remunerative employment. He has never been a public man
in the ordinary sense, having no taste for official or political life even if his
business interests would have permitted him to enter it, yet he has held many
important relations to the public through the manufacturing enterprise which
he has conducted, the public being a large indirect beneficiary. He early showed
conspicuously the traits of character that have made his life brilliantly suc-
cessful. When a young man in the employ of others he performed all the
duties that devolved upon him, however humble and however small the recom-
pense might be, conscientiously and industriously, and since starting in business
on his own account a splendid prosperity has been steadily his.
WALTER P. SCHWEFEL.
Dodge county finds a worthy representative of its farming interests in Walter
P. Schwefel, a native son, who is cultivating one hundred and twenty-five acres
of land on section 21, Lebanon township. He was born September 11, 1888, and
is a son of Paul and Louisa (Schwefel) Schwefel, also natives of Lebanon town-
ship, where they make their home at the present time.
Waller P. Schwefel was reared upon his father's farm and early became
acquainted with the duties and labors which fall to the lot of the agriculturist.
He attended the German and public schools of Lebanon township and when not
busy with his books aided his father until he was eighteen years of age, when
he accepted a position as clerk in a general merchandise store conducted by H. R.
Moldenhauer & Company in Lebanon. This enterprise was sold in 1908 to J. W.
Nass and Mr. Schwefel returned to the homestead, where he remained until his
marriage in 191 1. In that year he purchased one hundred and twenty-five acres,
where he has since resided. Ninety acres are enclosed by barbed wire fence and
eighty acres Mr. Schwefel has under the plow. There is natural drainage and
water is supplied to all parts of the land from a drilled well. This property Mr.
Schwefel has in excellent condition and upon it he docs general farming, dairy-
ing and stock-raising, making each department of his activities profitable. His
fields are planted in hay and in all kinds of grain, the most of which he feeds to
his stock, marketing only his barley and rye. lie breeds graded Holstein cattle
Digitized by Google
34
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
and blooded hogs and keeps besides eighteen cows for dairy purposes. A good
business ability guides and directs his agricultural knowledge and has made him,
while still a young man, a prosperous and substantial farmer. He is a stock-
holder in the Schwefel Cheese Factory, to which he sells the products of his
dairy, and is otherwise interested in business growth and expansion.
On October 29, 191 1, Mr. Schwefel was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca
Zwieg, a daughter of Henry and Henrietta (Miller) Zwieg, natives of Lebanon
township, in which section they are residing upon a farm. Mrs. Schwefel is
the eldest of twelve children and was born in Lebanon township, March 1. 1887.
She and her husband belong to the Immanuel German Lutheran church.
Mr. Schwefel votes the democratic ticket and keeps fully informed on the
questions and issues of the day. His principal attention,- however, is given to
farming and in this field he has won a success which is inseparable from able
management and persevering work.
Terrence R. Mallon, proprietor of the Park Hotel in Juneau, has been oper-
ating this enterprise since April 15, 191 2. In less than a year he has made it
one of the best hotels in the village, accomplishing this result by following
fair and honorable business methods. He was born in County Armagh, Ireland.
December 19, 1861, a son of John and Mary (McShane) Mallon, natives of
that country. As a young man his father was a teamster and farmer, and came
to America in 1864, settling in Columbia county. Wisconsin, at Otsego, in i8tVi.
Here he engaged in railroad construction work in which line of activity he con-
tinued until 1887 when he retired from active life and made his home with the
subject of this review. He died ten years later in the seventy-first year of !ns
age. His wife now resides on a farm near Doylestown, Columbia county, mak-
ing her home with her son Frank.
After completing his education in the public schools of Doylestown. Ter-
rence R. Mallon worked as a farm hand until he was twenty-three years of age.
He laid aside his books when he was nine and has been earning his own liveli-
hood since that time, a fine example in attainments and qualities of a modern
self-made man. When he had saved enough money he rented a farm and as
a renter carried on general agricultural pursuits for fifteen years and then pur-
chased one hundred and twenty acres in Scott township, Columbia county, upon
which he resided for six years, finally exchanging the property for a smaller
farm. His health failing he abandoned agriculture and went upon the road as
a traveling salesman, handling the famous Wilson remedies throughout Fond
du Lac county. After seventeen months he came to Fox Lake, Dodge county,
where he resided two and one-half years and then came to Juneau continuing
his sale of these medicines until April 15, 1912, when he purchased the Park
Hotel, which he has since operated. During the short period of his connection
with the management of this enterprise he has made extensive improvements,
adding a first-class bar and other important features. It is a modern and up-
to-date hostelry, equipped with all the newest accessories for the comfon ;wtd
TERRENCE R. MALLON.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
35
convenience of guests. It is one of the prosperous local enterprises and its
proprietor has gained recognition as a business man of ability, whose labors
have been important factors in the growth of the village.
In September, 1898, Mr. Mallon was united in marriage to Miss Mary Egan,
who was born in Marcella, Columbia county, January 20, 1871, a daughter of
William and Mary (Ford) Egan, •natives of Ireland. Her father came to
America in his early years and settled in Columbia county where for some time
he was connected with the local railroad but afterward became a prosperous
farmer. He died upon his property in this section in 1881 and his wife is still
residing upon the homestead. During his life he held various important local
offices, serving his fellow citizens ably and conscientiously and gaining a high
place in the respect and esteem of his friends. Mr. and Mrs. Mallon have six
children: William John, who was born December 20, 1899; Marion Elizabeth,
born December 25, 1902; Luella, whose birth occurred June 24, 1905; Norma,
and Irma, twins, whose births occurred January 6, 1910 ; and Audrey, born July
26, 1912. All of the children reside at home.
Mr. Mallon gives his political allegiance to the democratic party but has
never sought public office. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church and
belongs to the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. He is interested in the growth
and development of the section in which he has resided for so many years and
always invests his money in local enterprises, being a stockholder in the Co-
operative Creamery Company in Marcella and interested in various other im-
portant concerns. He is truly a self-made man, for he has been dependent upon
his own resources since he was nine years of age. This early training in initia-
tive and independence is the secret of his success for it has aided him in appre-
ciating and making use of the many opportunities which his ability commands.
HERMAN E. BECHERT.
Herman K. Bechert is a native son of Dodge county, born in the township
of Hubbard, August 24, 1859, and has here resided ever since. His father, John
Bechert, one of the pioneers of this section, was born in Germany, in the prov-
ince of Brandenburg, on the 6th of June, 1824, and emigrated to America in
1854, coming direct to Dodge county. He first found employment as a farm hand
and was so engaged for two years. By strict economy he saved enough funds
to enable him to buy a farm in Hubbard township, which he cleared and culti-
vated for a number of years. In 1863, however, he removed to the place where
the subject of this review now lives and there followed agricultural pursuits
successfully until 1886. In 1855, one year after his arrival in this country, he
married Miss Amelia Albert.
Herman E. Bechert was reared at home and attended the district school
and the German school at Horicon. He assisted his father with the work on the
home farm until 1882, becoming well versed in the details of progressive agri-
culture. He became well acquainted with all the branches of general farming
and also gained valuable knowledge in raising live stock. In 1882 he was able
to buy a part of his father's farm, which he cultivated independently until 1886,
36
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
when he acquired the entire property. He has since followed farming and stock-
raising along modern and progressive lines and has made many improvements
upon his place, which enhance its value. His labors have not only been of finan-
cial benefit to himself but have been important in the general agricultural devel-
opment of this section. He plants such grains as are most suitable to soil and
climate and derives from his labors satisfactory financial returns. He makes a
specialty of dairying and sees to it personally that the most sanitary and cleanly
conditions exist in this branch of his business. In 1885 he added to his buildings
a new barn, thirty-six by seventy feet, and he has improved and remodeled his
buildings and installed modern and up-to-date machinery to insure the largest
possible returns from his work.
Mr. "Bechert was married on Christmas eve of 1884 to Miss Amanda Meiss-
ner. a native of the township of Clyman and a daughter of Martin and Louisa
( Bieherman) Meissner, who were natives of Germany. To Mr. and Mrs.
Bechert were born six children: Herbert, who was born in 1888, and died in
1892; Hilda, born in 1890, who in 1908 married Arthur Adams; Honora, born
1892. who married in October, 1910, Everett Sette; Hortense, born in Decem-
ber, 1894, who was married September 4, 1912, to Charles Borngroeber; Harta,
born in 1896; and John, whose birth occurred in 1898.
The family affiliate with the Evangelical church and they take active interest
in the work of this organization and give to it their moral and material support.
Mr. Bechert votes the republican ticket in national and state politics and takes
a laudable interest in all questions of general importance. He has been promi-
nent in the public life of the community in which he lives and for six years
has served as town supervisor. His work in bettering educational facilities has
been valuable and for fifteen years he has served in the important position of
school treasurer and yet serves in that office. During his lifelong residence in
Hubbard township he has made many friends who greatly esteem him for his
manly qualities. As a farmer he has been successful and his labors have resulted
in adding to the assets of Hubbard township one of its most valuable and
prosperous farmers.
JOHN C. ZANDER.
Prominent among the enterprising, energetic and progressive business men
of Beaver Dam is John C. Zander, president of the German National Bank,
He early recognized the fact that success has its root in the recognition and
improvement of opportunity and as the years have gone by he has therefore
made good use of his time and talents until he has gained a conspicuous and hon-
orable position in banking circles, while at the same time he is financially inter-
ested in various corporations of the city.
He was born in Germany, January 23, 1843, a son ol Christian and Mary
(Dahl) Zander, who were also of German birth and lineage. The mother died
in Germany, after which the father started for the United States with his
family in 1855 but died while en route. In the meantime he had remarried,
t JOHN C SANDER
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
39
and the stepmother continued on the way with the family, numbering four chil-
dren. The eldest daughter had previously come to America in 1854 and was
married in this country to Henry Bcneke, who resided on a farm near Water-
town, Wisconsin. Thither the Zander family made their way but later took up
their abode in Watcrtown.
John C. Zander was a young lad at the time of the arrival of the family in
this state. His early education was acquired in the schools of Watertown and
on starting out in life for himself he worked as a farm hand for two years.
Not content with the educational opportunities he had thus far received, he
later went to school through the winter months. His residence in Beaver Dam
covers fifty-four years, dating from 1858. For eleven years he engaged in clerk-
ing in a store but all this time was urged on by laudable ambition to save his
money and make the most of his opportunities. At length his earnings enabled
him to open a store in partnership with a Mr. Sherman under the firm style
of Sherman & Zander. They carried a large and well selected line of general
merchandise and were together from 1870 until 1884. In the latter year Mr.
Zander purchased his partner's interest and remained as sole proprietor until
1896, when he sold out to his son and his son-in-law. Since then he has lived
practically retired save for his bank connections. The German National Bank
was organized in 1891, its first officers being: Theodor Huth, president; D.
Dickenson, vice president; George E. Congdon, cashier; and M. A. Jacobs,
assistant cashier. The bank was capitalized for fifty thousand dollars and moved
into a building that was erected the year before by a Milwaukee gentleman who
planned to start a state bank but never did so. The German National Bank
then purchased the building which it has since occupied. It is a two-story struc-
ture, with offices on the second floor. On the death of Mr. Huth, in 1902, Mr.
Zander succeeded to the presidency. He had been one of the organizers of the
bank and one of its directors from the beginning and, always with voice in its
management, he was well qualified to assume the duties of the presidency and
has been the guiding spirit of the institution since that time. The bank has
always followed a conservative policy that has safeguarded the interests of its
patrons and at the same time has kept in touch with the most progressive and
modern methods of conducting banking institutions. The present officers, in
addition to Mr. Zander, arc: J. W. Miller, vice president; M. A. Jacobs, cash-
ier; and Alfred G. Miller, assistant cashier. These gentlemen, together with
A. G. Hill, D. P. Lamoreux and Herman Koch, constitute the board of direc-
tors. The statement of the bank presents a most creditable showing and its policy
commends it to the confidence of all.
Something of the success which has attended the institution is indicated in
the fact that its capital stock in 191 1 was increased to one hundred thousand
dollars, in addition to which there is a surplus of twenty-five thousand dollars
and undivided profits of about eleven thousand dollars. At the present time
the building in which the bank is located is being remodeled, a new floor laid and
new bank fixtures installed, while thirty-two feet of space have been added.
A new vault has been put in and there is no equipment or accessory of a model
bank that is today lacking.
Mr. Zander has always been recognized as a man of resourceful business
ability. From the outset of his career he has looked beyond the exigencies
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of the moment to the possibilities and opportunities of the future. His sound
judgment and enterprise have made his aid a valuable factor in the conduct of
important business interests and his cooperation has been largely sought. He
is a stockholder of the Malleable Iron Company, a director and stockholder of
the Beaver Dam Woolen Mills and was formerly interested in the cotton mill.
He is likewise treasurer and director of the Malleable Iron Range Company.
His opinions have ever carried weight in local business circles and his enter-
prise has enabled him to pass far beyond the point of mediocrity and reach a
place among the more successful few.
On the 2d of May, 1867, Mr. Zander was married to Miss Minnie Ladwig,
of Watertowh, Wisconsin, who was born in Germany and is a daughter of Jacob
I-adwig, who brought his family to the United States in 1862 and settled at
Watertown. Mr. and Mrs. Zander have become the parents of six children,
of whom three are living: Agnes, at home; Arthur, a merchant of Beaver
Dam ; and Olga, the wife of Peter Pfeffer, a merchant of Beaver Dam.
Mr. Zander holds membership with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and his political allegiance has always been given to the democratic party.
For twenty years he has been school commissioner and the cause of education
has always been able to count upon him as a champion of its interests. For a
year he has served as alderman and for one year he was mayor of Beaver
Dam. His interest has ever been that of a public-spirited citizen who deals not
in glittering generalities but looks to practical results. Regarded as a citizen
and in his social relations, he belongs to that public-spirited, useful and helpful
type of men whose ambitions and desires are centered and directed in those
channels through which flows the greatest and most permanent good to the
greatest number.
WILLIAM T. SCHWANTZ.
William T Schwantz, the present incumbent of the office of register of deeds
of Dodge county, is a native of Hubbard township, his birth having occurred there
on the 4th of February, 1870. His parents were Frederick and Augusta Schwantz,
natives of Germany, who emigrated to the United States about 1862, coming
direct to this county. The father subsequently acquired a tract of land in Hub-
bard township and diligently engaged in its cultivation until his death in 1890.
He was survived by the mother, who continued to make her home on the farm
until she passed away in 1893. They were Lutherans and belonged to the
church at Horicon. The father was drafted into the Union army during the
Civil war, but he never saw any active service, having been discharged before he
reached the front. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Schwaijtz, ouj sub-
ject being the seventh in order of birth.
The boyhood of William T. Schwantz was passed in the uneventful routine
characteristic of life in the rural sections. His early education was obtained in
the schools of his home district and the German Lutheran parochial school at
Horicon, which he attended until confirmed at the age of thirteen years. Soon
thereafter he began earning his own living, first as a farm hand but later he went
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
41
to work in a stone quarry. There he sustained a serious injury to his hand while
blasting rock, which for some time thereafter prevented his following any line
of employment. As he was only eighteen when this occurred, he concluded to re-
sume his studies and for three years thereafter he attended the high school at
Horicon. At the expiration of that time he taught for a year, thus acquiring
the money to enable him to pursue a business course in a commercial college at
Milwaukee. Later he became identified with mercantile pursuits and for five
and a half years conducted a general mercantile store at VVaupun. At the ex-
piration of that time he disposed of his interests there and engaged in the same
business at Lowell, Iowa. A well assorted stock offered at reasonable prices,
courteous and considerate treatment of patrons, and commendable business
methods were the dominant factors in his success and enabled him to build up a
large trade. He profitably conducted this enterprise until elected to his present
office in 191 1, when he exchanged his store for a Dodge county farm, which he
still owns. He is' also extensively interested in the Lowell Canning Factory.
On the 14th of April, 1898, Mr. Schwantz was united in marriage to Miss
Amanda Seegert, who was born in Mayville, this county, on the 9th of June, 1873.
She is a daughter of August and Ernestine Seegert, and is the oldest member
in a family of six. The father engaged in farming during his early life but
he later removed to Horicon where for many years he held the position of night
watchman. Both he and the mother were natives of Germany.
Mr. and Mrs. Schwantz are members of the Lutheran church. Politically
Mr. Schwantz is a democrat and while residing at Lowell served for seven years
as justice of the peace and for one year he was a member of the county board.
Mr. Schwantz is honorable in his motives and conscientious in the discharge of
his duties, creditably filling any position with which he has been identified. He
is highly regarded in the communities where he has resided and is respected by
all who have had transactions with him, as he is a man of unfaltering integrity.
ADRIAN C. KARSTEN, M D.
Dr. Adrian C. Karsten is one of the well known medical practitioners of Hori-
con, where he has-been prominent as a physician and surgeon for twenty years.
He was born in Forrcston, Ogle county, Illinois, on August 16, 1865, and is a son
of john H. and Adriaane (v. d. Tak) Karsten, both of whom were born in The
Netherlands. The father's birth occurred on the 16th of February, 1833, and his
early life was spent in studying theology and medicine. He later was ordained
as a minister of the gospel and for fifty years he has been active in promoting
religious expansion. His residence in America dates from 1844, in which year he
located in Holland, Michigan, where he was an active factor in the furthering
of Christianity. He also attended school during that time in order to learn the
English language and was graduated from Rutgers College, a theological semi-
nary in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1862. He studied medicine afterward
for one year and at the end of that time came to Fond du Lac county, where
he took up his duties as a minister and had charge of various parishes. He
worked in Illinois. Michigan and Wisconsin, staying in the latter state for four-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
teen years, first in Fond du Lac county and afterward in Sheboygan county.
He afterward removed to Holland, Michigan, where he took up newspaper
work. There he still resides and has retired from the ministry, although he is
still active in literary work. His wife is also living. They became the parents
of six children : Dr. Adrian C, the subject of this sketch : Elizabeth, the wife
of John Rankins, a retired farmer of Coopersville, Michigan; Conrad, who
is engaged in the jewelry business at Grand Rapids, Michigan; Anna, who is
in the millinery business at Kalamazoo, Michigan; Carrie, the wife of Herman
Lemknil, a rural free delivery mail carrier, at Oostburg, Wisconsin ; and Jennie,
who resides with her parents in Holland, Michigan, where she is teaching music.
Dr. Karsten was educated in the district schools of Fond du Lac county and
attended the high school at Waupun. He entered Hope College in Holland,
Michigan, and later attended the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He
received his degree of M. D. from Rush Medical College. Chicago, and at the
age of twenty-seven began practicing in Horicon. Since that time he has built
up an extensive patronage which is accorded him on account of his expert knowl-
edge of the underlying principles of his profession, upon his dexterity and
skill, and upon his progressive and modern methods. Dr. Karsten is one of the
substantial and representative physicians of Horicon. He devotes his entire
time to his practice which is lucrative and constantly expanding. The territory
in which he serves extends beyond the limits of the village and into Dodge
county, and the Doctor uses an automobile with which to make his calls and has
found this a convenient and rapid way of covering ground. From the very
beginning his success has been gratifying, based as it is upon the firm foundation
of scientific efficiency. He is now known and welcomed in many families in
Horicon and Dodge county not only for his professional ability but for his genial
and lovable personal qualities.
Dr. Karsten was married in February, 1887, to Miss Mary M. McCoy, who
was born in Baltimore. Maryland, January 26, 1865. She is a daughter of Henry
B. and Caroline W. (Bentley) McCoy, the father a native of Virginia and the
mother of England. Henry McCoy .was during his youth a rectifier, but later
followed the occupation of fisherman. He met with financial reverses during the
Civil war, losing thirty-seven thousand dollars in one day. He and his wife have
now passed away. To Dr. and Mrs. Karsten have been born three children :
Norma, whose birth occurred on the 5th of September, 1888, and who is the
wife of Arthur Flory. chief engineer for the steam turbine department of the
Allis-Chalmers Company of Milwaukee, by whom she has one child, Karsten.
whose birth occurred in February, 1912; Jean, born June 7. 1894, who is attend-
ing Sacred Heart Academy at Madison, Wisconsin; and John, born May 16,
1896, who is a student in the Horicon high school.
In his political affiliations Dr. Karsten is republican, but is not active as an
office seeker. He belongs to the American Medical Association and the Wiscon-
sin State and the Dodge County Medical Societies. He also holds membership
in an association composed of the Ann Arbor graduates of this section of Wis-
consin and is active in the affairs of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Rail-
way Surgeons Association, being the head surgeon of this organization in
Horicon. He is prominent in the Masons and holds membership in the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows. In his practice he is distinguished by enter-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
43
prise, by modernly progressive lines, by a broad knowledge of the many technical
and special details regarding medicine and by a humanity and kindness which
endear him to those with whom he comes in contact and make of every patient
a firm friend.
FREDERICK W. LUECK.
For more than forty years Frederick W. Lueck has been successfully identi-
fied with commercial circles in Juneau, and during that time he has been
actively connected with municipal affairs. He is one of the citizens Germany
has furnished Dodge county, his birth having occurred in Yankendorf Be-
zirk, Brandenburg, on the 29th of July, 1844. His parents, Ludwig and Rosina
(Clingbeil) Lueck, emigrated to the United States with their family in 1852,
settling in Lebanon, this county, and there they both passed away.
As he was a lad of only eight years when he came to this country with his
parents, Frederick W. Lueck is thoroughly American in his ideas and views
as well as in his business methods. His education was begun in the parochial
schools of his native land and continued for a time in the district schools of
Lebanon. When he was fifteen years of age he went to Milwaukee to learn
the shoemakers' trade, and while serving his apprenticeship he attended night
school. He was an ambitious youth and used his time to the best possible
advantage, both in the workroom and when at leisure, his spare hours being
largely devoted to self-improvement. The land of his adoption having be-
come very dear to him, in the early days of the Civil war he responded to the
nation's call for troops and on August 15. 1862, he enlisted as a private and
went to the front with Company A, Twenty-sixth Regiment, Wisconsin Vol-
unteers. Among the engagements in which he participated were- Chancellors-
-ville, Gettysburg, Mission Ridge, the entire Atlanta campaign, including the
siege of Atlanta and Sherman's march to the sea. Mr. Lueck took part in
the grand review at Washington, D. C, following the close of the war. He
was mustered out on the 1st of July, 1865. Immediately upon receiving his
discharge he returned to Dodge county, settling in Horicon, where he en-
gaged in the shoe business until 1870. In the latter year he came to Juneau
and established the store he is now conducting, and during the intervening
years has become numbered among the city's foremost business men. He
is a man of earnest purpose, honorable methods and unquestionable integrity,
and in the conduct of his enterprise has adhered to a policy that has enabled
him to win and retain the confidence of the community. He who proves
trustworthy in one capacity will invariably prove faithful to every duty con-
fided in him, and Frederick W. Lueck is no exception to this rule as his
fellow townsmen have long ago proven to their entire satisfaction. As a
business man, citizen and public official he has contributed generously of his
time, energy and means in the promotion of the town's development. He
is both progressive and enterprising and can be depended upon to champion
the adoption of every movement that he feels will advance the community's
welfare either financially, educationally, socially or morally.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
It was on the 20th of October, 1869, that Mr. Lueck was married to Miss
Wilhelmina Schauer of Theresa, and to them have been born the following chil-
dren : William, who died in infancy ; Martin L., now judge of Dodge county ;
Clara M., who is a court reporter; Robert W., a prominent member of the bar of
Watertown, this state; and Arthur W. Mr. Lueck is very proud of his family,
all of whom are a credit to their parents and are leading active and useful lives.
In matters of religious faith the family are Protestants and are members
of the German Reformed church. In politics he is a democrat, giving his
allegiance to the progressive faction of that party. He has been for more
than twenty years a member of the city council and helped to draw the city
charter, while for thirty years he served on the school board. For sixteen
years he was chief of the local fire department and for five he was a member
of the board of supervisors. His record as a public official is one any man
might well be proud of, as it has been noticeably free from the aspersions usually
cast on those who are identified with political affairs. He is a man of strong
convictions and fearlessness of purpose, and to the best of his ability fulfils
his duty as it appears to him. As a public official he is honored and respected,
as a private citizen he is held in deep regard by a large circle of friends and
as a business man he is accorded the absolute trust and confidence of all who
have had dealings with him. Prosperity has attended Mr. Lueck and in addi-
tion to his other interests he has some valuable property holdings in Juneau,
including a business block on the south side of the square.
ALBERT H. BUSSEWITZ.
Albert H. Bussewitz has for many years been identified with the political
life of Dodge county, where he now holds the office of assessor of incomes.
He is a member of one of the pioneer families and was born in Lomira town-
ship, on the 2d of May, 1855, his parents being Frederick M. and Caroline
(Pade) Bussewitz. They were born in Brandenburg in the vicinity of Berlin,
Germany, the father's natal day being the nth of November, 1818, and that
of the mother May 10, 1821. There they were likewise reared and married,
emigrating to the United States in 1852. Their destination was Dodge county,
and they came direct to Lomira township, where the father acquired land which
he cultivated until 1870. He then disposed of this place and removed to I-owell
township, where he continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until he died
in 1895. The mother passed away in 1892. In his early manhood the father
served the usual period in the army required of every able-bodied German
subject. He and the mother were devout members of the Lutheran church
and reared their children in that faith. Their family numbered twelve, as
follows : Frederick, who resides at Merton, Waukesha county, this state ; Louise,
the widow of Frederick Vergenz, who resides in Juneau; Ferdinand, deceased;
Frederica, the wife of August Schmidt, of Lomira township; August, who is
a resident of Neillsville, Clark county, this state; Herman, of Turtle Lake,
Barron count;. Wisconsin; Albert H., our subject; Amelia, the deceased wife
of Herman Grahinski. of Miranda. South Dakota: Emma, who became the
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
45
wife of Frank Hilliker, of Gas, Allen county, Kansas; Robert, who is a resi-
dent of Lowell, this county ; and two, who died in infancy.
The early life of Albert H. Bussewitz was passed on the home farm,
in the work of which he began to assist soon after commencing his education in
the district schools. He was given better advantages than fell to the lot of
the average youth living in the country at that period and completed his course
of study in the Wayland Academy. Upon the completion of his education he
taught school during the winter months for four years and did farm work
in the summer, remaining at home until he was married. Subsequently he
purchased a portion of the old homestead from his father and engaged in
farming for himself. He there continued his agricultural pursuits until 1899,
when he came to Juneau and three years later he disposed of his farm and
purchased the Rich farm, which is adjacent to the city of Juneau. He resided
there until 1909, and in connection with the cultivation of his fields and stock
raising operated a stone quarry, located on the place. Four years ago, in 1908,
Mr. Bussewitz erected his present residence in Juneau and here he and his
family have since made their home. He still owns his farm, which is now
being managed by his eldest son and together they are engaged in the breeding
and raising of pure-bred Holstein cattle, their herd numbering forty head. He
has prospered in his various undertakings, and is financially interested in
different local enterprises. He is secretary and treasurer of the Juneau Cheese
& Butter Company, and he also owns stock in the Juno Motor Truck Com-
pany, the Citizens Bank and the Lowell Canning Company.
On the 27th of November, 1879, Mr. Bussewitz was married to Miss Au-
gusta Schoenwetter, whose birth occurred in Germany, on the nth of Novem-
ber, 1855. She is a daughter of Frederick and Wilhelmina (Baltzer) Schoen-
wetter, natives of Brandenburg, Germany, the father having been born on the
1st of December, 1818, and the mother about two years later. In 1856, to-
gether with their family they emigrated to the United States, their capital
consisting of twenty-five cents upon their arrival in Lowell, this county. The
father was an industrious and enterprising man, however, and readily found
employment. His diligence united with the thrifty mother's capable manage-
ment soon enabled them to acquire sufficient means to buy a small tract of
land and engage in farming for themselves. He added to his holdings from
time to time as his circumstances permitted until he acquired extensive prop-
erty interests. They both passed away in Lowell, where they were well known
and highly respected. In matters of faith they were Lutherans and belonged
to the German church of that denomination. The family of Mr and Mrs.
Schoenwetter numbered seven, Mrs. Bussewitz being the fourth in order of
birth.
To Mr. and Mrs. Bussewitz have been born six children: William, who
married Hattie Schwandt and is residing on his father's farm ; Irene, the
wife of Herbert H. Becker, who is engaged in farming in Clyman township;
Orlo. who is residing on a farm south of Juneau owned by his father ; Walter,
principal of the Wild Rose high school, who married Addie Rupnow ; Ada,
the wife of Bernard Hilgendorf, a druggist of Martell. this state; and Max.
who graduated from the Juneau high school with the class of 1912, and is
now a student at the State University.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Ever since granted the right of franchise upon attaining his majority, Mr.
Bussewitz has been more or less actively identified with local politics, his sup-
port being given to the democratic party. For twenty years he was school
clerk in Lowell township, while for four years he served as assessor, and for
five he discharged the duties of chairman. In 1899 he was elected county
clerk, which office he held for four years, while for ten he has been acting as
deputy. He was also deputy supervisor of assessments for a year, and for
three he was supervisor of assessments. During the period of his residence
in Juneau he has been elected mayor, president of the council, alderman, and
member of the commission of public works, and since January, 191 2, he has
been assessor of incomes. He is a business man of more than average capa-
bility and has been officially identified with different local enterprises, among
these being the Elba Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of which he was director
for two years and treasurer for three. He is a member of the Lutheran church
as is also his wife and family. Mr. Bussewitz is a man of good principles and
high standards and has not only proven efficient and capable as a public official
but has managed to maintain his honor and keep his integrity above question.
He is esteemed and respected in his community where he has many friends,
the majority of whom have known him from boyhood.
GEORGE W. MORSE.
For more than half a century the name of Morse has been prominently
identified with the political history of Dodge county, the family now being
ably represented by George W. Morse. His birth occurred in Mayville, this
county, on the 19th of December, 1848, his parents being William M. and
Margaret (Reynolds) Morse. The father, who was one of twelve children,
was born in England in 1827, but in his early youth he came to America, resid-
ing for a time in the state of New York. In 1842 he came to Milwaukee and
entered the employ of Sol Juneau, but the next year he returned to New York
where he held the position of deputy department surveyor until 1846. He sub-
sequently came back to Milwaukee and went to work for Sol Juneau at
Theresa, where he was first engaged in surveying, having been appointed dis-
trict surveyor by Territorial Governor Dodge. In 1847 he was married to
Miss Reynolds, who was born in the state of New York about 1830, and they
located in Williamstown. After the death of his wife in 1849 he removed to
Ashippun township, making his home there until 1868, when he went to Rubi-
con, where he passed the remainder of his life. Mr. Morse was one of the
prominent pioneer settlers of Dodge county, and always took an active interest
in promoting its development. He was serving his third term in the state
legislature at the time of his death in 1875, having been a member of this body
in 1857 and 1866. He was county supervisor and a member of the board of
supervisors from the time he located in Theresa until he passed away. He was
a man well endowed for pioneering, possessing the judgment, foresight and
breadth of view which enabled him to see things in their proper proportions,
and the resolution of purpose and determination to remain true to his convic-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
47
tions. His family numbered eight, but our subject was the only child born of
his first marriage.
The life of George W. Morse has not been in any way remarkable, save
as it has been characterized by a fidelity to duty, sincerity of purpose and an
integrity that is not often associated with those in public service. He was reared
amid pioneer conditions, and given practically the same educational advantages
received by the average youth of that period residing in this section of the
west. He became self-supporting at the age of eighteen years, but remained
at home until he had attained his majority. His knowledge of surveying was
acquired from his father, with whom he worked from early youth until the
latter's death. When not following his vocation he worked on farms or fol-
lowed any other occupation, which enabled him to earn an honest living. Dur-
ing the early days he was engaged at various times in surveying and locating
lumber grants in the north, but he has usually followed his profession in this
section. He was appointed county surveyor in 1875, and has ever since been
identified with local official life. In 1884, he began his duties as clerk of the
court, in which capacity he served for six years. Previous to his election as
clerk of the court he also served for ten years as a member of the board of
supervisors.
On the 7th of July, 1871, Mr. Morse was married to Miss Florence Rob-
inson, a native of the state of New York, who passed away the year following
their marriage. In 1881, was celebrated his marriage to Miss Bridget O'Con-
nor, a native of Ireland. Three children were born to them, all of whom are
now deceased as is also the mother, whose death occurred in 1890. In 1892,
Mr. Morse married Miss Winnie E. Flanagan, who was born in this county in
1862. Her parents, both of whom are deceased, were pioneer settlers of
Dodge county, where the father acquired extensive property interests. To
Mr. Morse and his present wife have been born the following children: G.
Earl, whose birth occurred in 1893; Margaret, whose natal day was in Au-
gust, 1894; and Raymond, who was born in 1897.
Ever since granted the right of franchise Mr. Morse has given his support
to the democratic party, his indorsement being accorded to the progressive fac-
tion of that body. Through his long connection with public affairs he has be-
come widely known in the county, where he has many friends by whom he
is accorded the esteem and respect invariably paid the man of honorable motives
and upright principles.
WALTER G. GRIMMER.
Walter G. Grimmer, in charge of the chemical department of the Beaver
Dam Malleable Iron Works, is one of the well known and representative citi-
zens of Beaver Dam. His birth occurred in Kewaunee, Kewaunee county,
Wisconsin, on the 5th of December, 1872, his parents being George and Bertha
(Lorenz) Grimmer. The father, who was born in 1827, passed away in the
year 1907. He came to Kewaunee from New Brunswick in the early '40s and
was an active and prominent factor in the upbuilding of that city. He was
48
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
engaged in the lumbering business and was likewise connected with railroad
interests, serving as vice president of the Green Bay Railroad for a number of
years. In financial circles he was known as a director of the State Bank. His
political allegiance was given to the republican party and his prominence in
its ranks is indicated by the fact that in 1880 he was chosen state senator. To
him and his wife were born two children, namely: Walter G., of this review;
and Mrs. Laura G. Haney, who is a resident of Kewaunee
Walter G. Grimmer acquired his early education in the graded and high schools
of Kewaunee and subsequently entered the University of Wisconsin, where
he pursued special courses in English and chemistry, arid where he was gradu-
ated in 1893. Going to Duluth, he was there connected with Morris Thomas
in the lumber business. In 1897 he went to Prescott, Arizona, and remained
in the service of the American Refining & Smelting Company as a chemist
until 1905. In that year he removed to Shullsburg, Wisconsin, and was there
employed as chemist in the zinc extraction works. Since leaving that place
he has been in charge of the chemical department of the Beaver Dam Malle-
able Iron Works.
On the 15th of October, 1903, Mr. Grimmer was united in marriage to Miss
Violet M. Hatz, a daughter of Daniel and Kathrine Hatz, of Prescott, Arizona.
Mrs. Grimmer has a sister and brother, Mrs. A. W. Bork and Albert G. Hatz,
both of whom are residents of Prescott, Arizona.
At the polls Mr. Grimmer supports the men and measures of the republi-
can party, being convinced that its principles are most conducive to good gov-
ernment. His religious faith is that of the Episcopalian church. Fraternally
he is identified with the Masons, belonging to the blue lodge, the chapter and
the commandery. In matters of citizenship he is loyal and cooperates in many
measures that are factors for the general good.
George Milton Hodgins, who is successfully engaged in the practice of vet-
erinary surgery in Juneau, was born in Lucan, Canada, on the 19th of April,
1866. He is a son of George W. and Fanny (Lynch) Hodgins, also natives of
Canada, where the father engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in
June, 191 1 The mother is still living and continues to make her home in
Canada. Four children were born of their marriage, of whom our subject is the
second in order of birth.
The early life of George Milton Hodgins was passed in very much the same
manner as that of other farmer lads. At the usual age he began his education
in the public schools of Lucan, which he continued to attend until graduated
from the high school. In order to acquire a broader knowledge of business meth-
ods he later entered a commercial college at London, Ontario, from which he
was also graduated, and then began his independent career as a wage earner.
A commercial career was not entirely to his liking and he subsequently began his
professional studies in the Veterinary college of Toronto, being awarded his de-
gree with the class of 1890. For two years after his graduation he engaged in
GEORGE MILTON HODGINS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
49
practice with a veterinary surgeon at Lucan, but at the expiration of that time he
once more turned his attention to agricultural pursuits and took over the man-
agement of his father's farm. Two years later he came to Juneau and here he
has ever since been engaged in practice. Dr. Hodgins' early experience on the
farm and knowledge of stock united with his thorough professional course have
well qualified him for his career. During the period of his residence here he
has become recognized as a capable practitioner and is meeting with success.
On the 5th of July, 1905, Dr. Hodgins was united in marriage to Miss May
Williams, who was born at Dodgeville, Iowa county, this state, and is a daughter
of William B. and Mary Williams. The father, who was one of the prominent
farmers of Iowa county, is now deceased, but the mother is still living and makes
her home in Dodgeville. Two children have been born of this marriage: George
Ray, whose birth occurred on the nth of August, 1909; and Winifred Gwen-
dolyn, whose natal day was May 25, 191 1.
Fraternally Dr. Hodgins is affiliated with the Masonic fraternity, belonging
to the blue lodge of Juneau chapter of Horicon and commandery at Beaver
Dam, while he maintains relations with his fellow practitioners through the
medium of his connection with the Wisconsin State Veterinary Association.
He supports the democratic ticket and takes an active interest in local politics.
At the present time he is representing his ward in the city council, discharging
his duties in this connection with efficiency and to the general satisfaction of the
community.
JOHN H. CARROLL.
John H. Carroll, who is the present highway commissioner, was born in
Shields township, Dodge county, on the 8th of December, 1865, and is a son
of Frederick Patrick and Anna (Morrison) Carroll. The parents were both
born in the state of New York, the father's birth having occurred in 1818 and
that of the mother in 1832. In 1846, Frederick Carroll came to Wisconsin and
engaged in teaming for several years thereafter between Oshkosh and Milwau-
kee. Later he purchased a tract of government land in Shields township, which
he cultivated with very good success until 1868. He then disposed of it and
removed to Clyman township, and four years later he became a resident of
Lowell township, where he passed away on March 31, 1909. The mother sur-
vived him for a year. Our subject is the second in order of birth in a family of
eight, the others being as follows : Martin, who died in infancy ; James, who is a
resident of the state of Washington; Marie, who is teaching in St. Regina's
Academy; and Stephen, Terry, Frederick and Michael, who are deceased.
Reared at home, the early education of John H. Carroll was acquired in the
common schools of this county. Later he continued his studies in the North-
western University at Watertown and he also pursued a business course at St.
Francis Academy, Milwaukee. When he was eighteen he left home and went
west and for two years thereafter engaged in railroading. At the expiration of
that time he returned to this county, settling on a farm in Lowell township.
He engaged in agricultural pursuits during the summer months while for three
50
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
years his winters were devoted to the acquirement of a better education. He
taught for one term, but continued to reside on his farm, which he cultivated
for several years thereafter and still owns, but he now makes his home in Juneau.
He also owns some land in North Dakota and is a stockholder in several of the
local cheese factories.
Fraternally Mr. Carroll is affiliated with the Masonic order and the Modern
Woodmen of America. His political views coincide with those of the democratic
party, but in local elections he votes for the man he deems best qualified for the
office, irrespective of politics. He has held various local offices and served for
four years as chairman of the township, and twelve years as clerk, while at the
present time he is highway commissioner. Mr. Carroll is a capable business
man, of good principles and reliable methods, and enjoys the respect and esteem
of a large circle of acquaintances, many of whom were the comrades of his
boyhood days.
Arthur W. Wilcox, vice president of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Com-
pany, makers of improved grain drills and seeders in Horicon, has made a
gradual rise from the position of clerk in the industrial institution, with which
he is now connected, to an important and responsible office. He has shown
himself equal to his place, having a power of business administration and energy
of a constructive and organizing kind. He is numbered among the prominent
and enterprising citizens of Horicon and is widely known in industrial and fra-
ternal circles. He was born in Oak Grove township, September 4, 1859, and is
a son of Owen B. and Sarah Ann (Potter) Wilcox, the former a native of Con-
necticut, where his birth occurred September 20. 1824, and the latter of New
York state, where she was born on the 16th of October, 1827. The father was
a merchant in New York state in the early years of his active life and was suc-
cessful in that line of activity until he came to Wisconsin in 1855. He settled
near Juneau and engaged in farming, in which occupation he continued until
the death of his wife which occurred in November, 1900. In that year he gave
up active agricultural labor and in the following spring left the farm and took
up his residence in Horicon with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bodden, with whom he
is still living. He and his wife had four children: Ida May, who married W. D.
Reed, a traveling salesman with headquarters in Sioux City, Iowa; Arthur W.,
the subject of this sketch ; Carrie Y., the wife of Frank Bodden, a lumber dealer
in Horicon ; and Lyman, who died in infancy.
Arthur Wilcox was educated in the Sixth district school of Oak Grove town-
ship and later attended the public schools of Horicon. At the age of seventeen
he obtained a position as clerk in a general store in Juneau where after seven
years of continuous service he entered the employ of the Van Brunt Manufac-
turing Company, one of the largest industrial institutions in Dodge county. Mr.
Wilcox's connection with the factory began in November, 1884, when he en-
tered upon his duties as clerk. His rise was rapid and came as a natural re-
sult of his ability and efficiency. In 1886 he was elected secretary and con-
ARTHUR W. WILCOX.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
51
tinued in that office until 191 1 when he assumed his present position as vice
president. During the short time of his activity in this connection Mr. Wil-
cox has shown himself equal to his responsibilities. He has adhered to his
policy of legitimate expansion and has carried out his ideas in a modern and
progressive way. He is straightforward and thoroughly upright and his rapid
rise in the business world is an evidence of the power of these qualities in insur-
ing success.
On September 26, 1883, Mr. Wilcox was united in marriage to Miss Hattie
Van Brunt, the youngest daughter of Daniel C. and Mary (Wright) Van Brunt.
She was born in Mayville, August 23, 1861, and died July 27, 1909. She and
her husband became the parents of two children : Howard Van Brunt, who was
born on October 11, 1886, and who is now assistant cashier in the Horicon State
Bank, and Russell Arthur, whose birth occurred on the 26th of October, 1899,
and who is attending school.
In his political views Mr. Wilcox is a stanch republican and served his fel-
low citizens as mayor of Horicon for four years during which time he did able
and progressive work and obtained for his community many needed improve-
ments. He belongs to the Presbyterian church and is favorably known in the
section in which he lives as a man of upright and straightforward character.
Fraternally Mr. Wilcox is a member of the Horicon Blue Lodge, No. 40, A. F.
& A. M.; Horicon Chapter, No. 24; Beaver Dam Commandery; the Wisconsin
Consistory; and the Mystic Shrine. For twenty-eight years he has given his
energies to one firm and his service has been always faithful and valuable. He
has risen on account of his genuine worth and his success has had a double ef-
fect in promoting his own prosperity and in adding to the progress of a grow-
ing industrial institution.
GEORGE ELSER.
Throughout the greater period of his manhood George Elser has been con-
nected with the grocery trade either as an emlpoye or as a merchant in that line
of business. Five years ago he established his present store in Beaver Dam and
has since successfully conducted the business as senior partner of the firm of
Elser & Company. He follows modern methods, holds to high commercial stand-
ards and recognizes the fact that satisfied patrons are the best advertisement,
putting forth every effort to please his patrons. He was born March 29, 1876,
in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, a son of Christian and Pauline (Schenner) Elser, whose
children were five in number, the others being: Fannie, Elizabeth and Chester,
all of Oshkosh; and Margaret, the wife of Wallace Herbst, of Antigo. The
Elsers come of German ancestry, the paternal grandfather of our subject having
been George Elser, who was born in Germany and for a time was a resident of
Pennsylvania before he removed westward to Wisconsin. His son, Christian
Elser, was born in Pennsylvania and in the pioneer period of Wisconsin
worked on his father's farm, aiding in the early agricultural development of the
district in which they lived.
52
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
George Elser, whose name introduces this record, pursued his education in
the public schools of Oshkosh to the age of thirteen years, and from that period
has been dependent entirely upon his own resources. He was first employed
in the factories and mills of Oshkosh until twenty-one years of age, since which
time he has been connected with the grocery business. For six years he was
employed as a clerk in grocery stores in Oshkosh. For four years he was con-
nected with the Newton & Wenz Company and about 1907 embarked in business
on his own account on North Spring street. He removed to his present loca-
tion about 1908 and two years ago admitted Samuel Elser to a partnership in
the business, which has since been conducted under the firm style of George
Elser & Company. Theirs is a well appointed store, supplied with a large line
of staple and fancy groceries, and their success is the merited reward of honor-
able dealing and courteous and obliging treatment of their patrons.
In 1905 George Elser was married to Miss Ella Fischer, a daughter of J. E.
and Minnie (Schultz) Fischer. Mr. and Mrs. Elser have three children, of whom
a daughter, Ruth D., died in infancy. The others are: Harold, born in 1907;
and Ruby, in 1909. Mr. Elser is prominent in fraternal circles, holding mem-
bership with the Odd Fellows lodge, of which he is a past grand ; the Equitable
Fraternal Union ; and the Modern Woodmen of America. He is likewise a mem-
ber of the Revere Club.
Edward C. Rehfeld. the present postmaster of Horicon, Wisconsin, and for
ten years engaged in the harness business in that city, was born in the district
where he now resides, October 26, 1874. He is a son of Charles William and
Fredericka (Hochschild) Rehfeld, both natives of Brandenburg, Germany,
where the father's birth occurred on August 31, 1836, and the mother's on Au-
gust 14, 1846. The father during his early life was engaged in the agricultural
implement business and also in the insurance line. He came to America in
1856, making his home in Juneau and later at Hustisford, Wisconsin, where
he worked in the employ of others until the outbreak of the Civil war. He en-
listed in Company C, Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, as a private but
was later promoted to the rank of sergeant of his company. His service ex-
tended over a period of three years and eleven months and he was mustered
out at the end of that time on account of disability, having been wounded in
the battle of Bentonville, North Carolina. After he was discharged he went
to Horicon, where he engaged in the sale of agricultural implements until his
retirement. He served on the county board for several terms and acted as
supervisor. He was justice of the peace in the years immediately following the
war of the Rebellion and is known as a public-spirited and representative citizen.
He also dealt in real estate for a short time but is now living retired.
Edward C. Rehfeld is the fourth in a family of eight children. He was edu-
cated in the public schools of Horicon and his early life was spent in helping
his father in the conduct of his business. At the age of twenty-four years he pur-
EDWARD C. REHFELD.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
53
chased his father's interest in the harness business, in which occupation he was
successful He was appointed postmaster of Horicon in 1909 and one year
after that event abandoned the harness-making business. He is now devoting
his entire attention to the duties of his office and to the carrying on of his in-
surance enterprise. He is a member of the firm of Rehfeld & Neitzel of Hori-
con and is active in the operation of one of the successful insurance concerns
in the community. His harness-making business was successful and he aban-
doned it only in order to give more conscientious service to the government in
the able management of the postofficc at Horicon.
On October 27, 1910, Mr. Rehfeld was united in marriage to Miss Alice
Herger, who was born in Horicon, November 9, 1875. To their union was born
one child, Arleen, whose natal day was July 9, 1912. Mr. Rehfeld is a con-
sistent republican and is interested in the affairs of his native section although
he never seeks public office. He is treasurer of the local fire department and sec-
retary of the Advancement Association. He belongs to the Masonic order,
holding membership in Horicon Lodge, No. 40, A. F. & A. M., of which he is
the present master, and in Chapter No. 24, R. A. M. His life has not been con-
spicuous in any way but its activities have always been straightforward and hon-
orable, his interest in the affairs of his community intelligent and his public
spirit broad and effective. These qualities as elements in his character have
made him successful according to the truest standards and have gained him
recognition as a native son, who is a credit to his community.
HARRY MARSH.
Harry Marsh is secretary of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company, having
advanced to this position from that of stenographer in nineteen years. His ser-
vices during that time have been valuable and loyal for he has worked always
in the interests of the company with which he is identified and has made his
own advantage subservient to that of his employers. He is a native son of
Horicon and was born August 19, 1871. His parents were Harry Butler and
Emeline Frances (Eggleston) Marsh, natives of New York state. His father
was born on April 21, 1822, and in his early life was a blacksmith. He came to
Wisconsin in the early days of its settlement and located at Horicon in 1846.
Here he established a mercantile business and operated it in conjunction with
a mill. He also conducted a livery enterprise, served as postmaster and for some
years was president of the village. He was a representative and prominent
citizen and continued his residence in Horicon until his death, which occurred
on the 18th of April, 1899. He had survived his wife by a number of years,
her death having occurred on March 18, 1887. They were the parents of nine
children, six of whom are living: Frank Eggleston, who is a shoe manufacturer
in Milwaukee; William, who is a train despatcher on the St. Louis & San Fran-
cisco Railroad, with headquarters in Thayer, Missouri; Louis, who is identified
with the Northwestern Insurance Company of Milwaukee; May, who also re-
sides in Milwaukee; Harry, the subject of this sketch; and Carrie, who is a
stenographer in La Crosse.
54
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Harry Marsh attended the public schools of his native city and began busi-
ness life for himself when he was twenty-two years of age. At that time he
became connected with the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company as stenographer
and since that time has been continuously identified with the concern. After
one year in his original position he was made shipping clerk and for two years
fulfilled the duties of this office ably and well. He was promoted to the posi-
tion of collection clerk and later had full charge of the collection department.
After several years of capable service he was again promoted, acting as sales
manager until 1912, when he was appointed secretary, which office he now holds.
His business standards are high and his integrity unquestioned and he adds to
fhese qualifications untiring industry, a shrewd, discriminating and judicious
mind and a comprehensive grasp of modern industrial conditions. These have
made him successful as a factor in the growth of one of the largest manufac-
turing enterprises in Dodge county and have been forces in his individual suc-
cess while at the same time they have influenced the broader growth of the es-
tablishment with which he is connected.
On October 2, 1900, Mr. Marsh was united in marriage to Miss Lucie Derge,
who was born near Rolling Prairie, on February 8, 1874, and is a daughter of
Herman and Marie Derge. The father was a millwright by trade and later be-
came a farmer in Beaver Dam township. He died in 1900 and is survived by
his wife, who makes her home in Horicon. In their family were seven children,
of whom the wife of our subject is the youngest. Mr. and Mrs. Marsh are
the parents of two children: Melbourne Derge, born February 4, 1907; and
Janet Dorothea, born May 24, 1909.
In his political views Mr. Marsh is consistently republican and has served
as a member of the Horicon city council and has also done active work on the
fire and police board. He is prominent in fraternal circles, holding membership
in the Masonic order, in which organization he belongs to the chapter and com-
mandery. He is an adherent of the Presbyterian church. As secretary of the
Van Brunt Manufacturing Company he occupies a leading place in industrial
circles. He is a type of the modern business man who has risen by his own
efforts. He is still in the prime of life, the nineteen years of his past prosperity
being only an indication of greater success to come.
Henry B. Sherman, who died in Burnett, Wisconsin, on July 14, 1894, was
one of the most successful hotel men in this section of the United States, con-
ducting various enterprises of this kind in Wisconsin, Indiana, and Minnesota.
He had acquired a wide and varied experience in his line of business, which
requires so much tact, judgment and circumspection, was thoroughly practical
and progressive, and scrupulously honest in his business relations, building upon
these foundations a distinct success. He was also well known as an expert
stock-raiser and farmer in Wisconsin, where he owned Spring Brook farm, one
of the most beautiful and model agricultural properties in the state. He had
a wide acquaintance in various parts of Wisconsin where he had resided since
HENRY B. SHERMAN.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
57
1857, and his death was the occasion of widespread and genuine sorrow. He was
born in Massachusetts, on April 6, 1830, and upon his father's side is of English
origin. His mother was of Holland ancestry.
Henry B. Sherman was the youngest in a family of four children. He was
educated in the public schools of his native state and upon the death of his
father, which occurred when he was eight years of age, he went to live with his
sister, whose husband was prominent in the hotel business. At the age of eigh-
teen Mr. Sherman began his business career as a hotel derk and after some
time spent in this occupation in various places was employed in the Winthrop
Hotel of Boston for two years. During the summer season he clerked in various
resorts in the White Mountains and spent three years in a hotel at Gorham and
the Crawford House, White Mountain Notch, New Hampshire. He was an
able and efficient employe and his advancement was rapid and well deserved.
In 1857 he was requested by Mr. Merrill and Mrs. George Hartwall, officials of
the St. Paul railroad to go west to Wisconsin and open a railroad restaurant
and hotel at Burnett Junction, on what was then the Prairie du Chien Railroad.
He accepted their offer and for seven years ran an enterprise of this kind.
On February 3, 1868, he removed to Toledo, where he established a junction
hotel in the railroad station. This he managed until 1874 when he purchased
the Plankington House in Milwaukee. He remained in the latter city for three
years, meeting with his usual success in the conduct of his enterprise.
While a resident of Toledo Mr. Sherman had purchased an eighty acre
farm in that vicinity and had operated it in conjunction with his hotel business.
He left it in charge of a manager during the three years he conducted the
Plankington House in Milwaukee but at the end of that time removed to his
property which he called Spring Brook farm and engaged in agriculture. The
place is famous today as one of the most beautiful farms in the state. It has
sanitary and modern buildings, attractively grouped. Mr. Sherman was well
known as a large importer of high-grade stock and was the owner of the first
Percheron horse ever brought to Wisconsin. He raised Shorthorn cattle, sheep
and Berkshire hogs, all pure-blooded stock and attended every agricultural
fair held in Milwaukee for many years, exhibiting sometimes as many as four-
teen carloads of thoroughbred stock. Mr. Sherman built modern barns, grana-
ries, and outbuildings upon his property. He beautified it by planting shade trees,
and kept swans and ducks upon the numerous fish ponds. After disposing of his
interests in Milwaukee he retired to his farm and there remained until January
1, 1880, when he removed to Indianapolis, Indiana, and opened the handsome
new Dennison Hotel, which he conducted until November 16, 1885. He sold out
on that date, in order to go to Minneapolis where he purchased the Nicolette
and was identified with its management for three years. In July, 1888, he re-
moved to Ashland, Wisconsin, where he ran the Chewanmagon Hotel for two
years, abandoning this enterprise at the end of that time in order to retire to
Spring Brook farm.
In 1854 Mr. Sherman was united in marriage to Miss Martha H. Ladd, a
daughter of Jonathan Ladd of Haverhill, New Hampshire. She is a graduate
of the Haverhill Academy and remained at home until her marriage. She is
now living in Beaver Dam, where she has resided since 1898.
vo«. n-4
58
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
In his political views Mr. Sherman was independent and although not aspir-
ing to public office, was intelligently interested in the growth and development of
his section. He did not affiliate with any religious organization but molded his
life along high standards of upright living and thinking. He died on July 14,
1894, in Burnett, Wisconsin, leaving many friends to mourn his loss. The
funeral took place under the auspices of the Masons. His life work was con-
stantly constructive and marked a distinct advance in methods of modern hotel
keeping. His influence was felt in his line of activity in many localities and was
a factor in growth, because it was always progressive. He gained recognition
as an able business man, whose integrity and sincerity of purpose influenced his
career.
August Charles William Luedtke, proprietor of a drug establishment at
Horicon, has built up a profitable business and enjoys an extensive trade in this
connection. His birth occurred on a farm near Iron Ridge, Dodge county, on the
8th of October, 1881, his parents being John and Anna (Stolle) Luedtke. The
father was born in Germany on the 1st of December, 1854, while the mother's
birth occurred near Iron Ridge, this county, on the 27th of June, 1863. When
about three years of age John Luedtke was brought to the United States by his
parents, the family home being established in Milwaukee. Subsequently he took
up his abode near Iron Ridge, in Herman township, this county, there purchased
land and began farming. He yet makes his home here and general agricultural
pursuits still claim his attention. Both Mr. and Mrs. John Luedtke are numbered
among the substantial and esteemed citizens of the community.
A. C. W. Luedtke obtained his early education in the district schools of Her-
man township and later attended the high school at Horicon. When twenty years
of age he left the parental roof and entered upon an apprenticeship in a drug
store at Horicon, thus serving for five years. During that period he pursued a short
course in pharmacy at the Milwaukee Medical college. He next spent one year
in relief work and then embarked in business on his own account, purchasing a
drug store at Markesan. which he conducted for two and a half years. On
the expiration of that period he removed his stock to his present location in
Horicon, also purchasing the stock in the establishment he bought. He carries
a complete line of drugs and druggists' sundries, stationery, etc., and enjoys an
enviable patronage. Mr. Luedtke is a stockholder in the Wisconsin Pharmaceu-
tical Company and devotes his entire attention to the interests of his business,
which is steadily growing.
It was on the 8th of October, 1908, that Mr. Luedtke was united in mar-
riage to Miss Emma Fcnske, who was born near Markesan, Green I-ake county,
Wisconsin, on the 10th of March, 1890, her parents being Gustav and Mary
(Fratzke) Fenske. Her father is a retired agriculturist residing at Markesan.
Our subject and his wife have one child, Franklin Gustav, whose natal day was
October 19, 1909.
AUGUST CHARLES WILLIAM LUEDTKE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY 59
Politically Mr. Luedtke is an independent republican but his aspirations have
never been in the line of office holding. His fraternal relations are with the
Masons at Horicon and also the Woodmen. He has already won a creditable po-
sition in business circles for one of his years and well deserves recognition among
the successful and representative citizens of his native county.
ALPHEUS F. RYDER.
Alpheus F. Ryder is one of the substantial and enterprising business men
of Juneau, where for nineteen years he has been engaged in buying and ship-
ping live stock, in connection with which he is managing the Juneau Cheese
& Butter Company, and is interested in promoting other local industries. A
native of Dodge county, his birth occurred at Hustisford on the 24th of July,
1861, his parents being Francis and Mary (Van Blaricom) Ryder. The father,
who was born in the state of New York in August, 1823, always engaged in
farming. He was an orphan boy and was taken from the poor house by the
superintendent at about eight years of age and reared with his own family.
When old enough to work himself he, with George Baker, an uncle of our
subject, came to Wisconsin. He came to this county in 1846 and acquired a
tract of government land at Hustisford, in the cultivation of which he dili-
gently engaged during the remainder of his life. He passed away on his farm
on the 19th of May, 1885. The mother, whose birth occurred on the 19th of
April, 1833, was a native of Canada. To them were born eight children in
the following order: Alpheus, who died in infancy; Abbie, the widow of
Charles Fletcher, of Waupun; Horatio, who is farming in Hustisford; Me-
lissa, the wife of Arthur Salisbury, a lumber and coal dealer of Rosendale,
Fond du Lac county; Alpheus F., our subject; Hadley, who is residing on the
old homestead in Hustisford township; Mary, the wife of William Jones,
of Juneau; and Frank, deceased.
Alpheus F. Ryder was reared on the farm where he was born, acquiring
his education in the schools of Hustisford. In common with other farmer
lads his energies were early directed along agricultural lines, and long before
he had attained his maturity he was thoroughly familiar with the practical
methods of tilling the fields and caring for the crops. He remained at home
until he was twenty-four years of age, and then started out for himself. In
t886, he purchased two hundred acres of land in Oak Grove township, a mile
east of Juneau and adjoining the county farm. He could only make a very
small payment on the place, burdening it with a heavy mortgage, but as he
was a capable agriculturist and a good manager the encumbrance was rapidly
decreased and he soon held a clear title to his land. He assiduously applied
himself to the further improvement and cultivation of this property for six
and a half years. At the expiration of that time he removed to Juneau, and
here, since 1893, he has been engaged in buying and shipping live stock, his
principal market being Chicago. He has prospered in this venture and is one
of the foremost men in this line of business in the town. He still owns and
operates his farm and is also manager and salesman of the Juneau Butter &
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Cheese Company, meeting with creditable success in both occupations. Soon
after removing to town, Mr. Ryder bought some lots in one of the choice
resident sections, which he has since improved by the erection of one of the
most attractive houses in the community.
On the 20th of April, 1886, Mr. Ryder was united in marriage to Miss
Eleanor Jones, who was born in Hustisford township, on the 23d of October,
1865. She is a daughter of Seneca B. and Eliza (Baker) Jones, well known
pioneers of this county. The father was born in the state of New York,
August 20, 1838, and the mother is a native of Cornwall, England, her birth
occurring on the nth of January, 1843. For many years Mr. Jones was en-
gaged in agricultural pursuits, but he is now devoting his attention almost
entirely to stock-raising, and is one of the most extensive breeders of Holstein
cattle in the state.. He is one of the substantial and progressive citizens of
Hustis.ford township, and is interested in several of its thriving local enter-
prises. He is a director in the Hustisford State Bank, and is also a stockholder
in the Hustisford Township Telephone Company, and the General Merchandise
Company.
Mr. and Mrs. .Ryder affiliate with the Methodist Episcopal church, and his
political support is accorded the republican party. He is public-spirited and
has been a constructive factor in the town's development, not only through
his capable and efficient manner of directing his business, but by actively co-
operating in the promotion of its various progressive movements. He has
worked zealously to promote the formation of the company organized to put
through the Milwaukee Western Electric Railway, running from Juneau to
the former city, and is now a director of the company. Mr. Ryder has always
worked hard, applying himself closely to his business, in the development of
which he has used much foresight and clear judgment, and such success as
has come to him is well deserved and highly merited.
Arthur W. Lueck, a member of the bar of Beaver Dam, who for five years
has engaged in practice, brought to the outset of his professional career thor-
ough preparatory training in the University of Wisconsin, and is now accorded
a clientage that many an older practitioner might well envy. Mr. Lueck is yet
a young man, his birth having occurred in Juneau on the 19th of July, 1885. His
father, F. W. Lueck, was born in Germany and many years ago came to Dodge
county. He is a shoemaker by trade and is an industrious, reliable man. For
forty years he has lived in Juneau, where he is widely and favorably known.
His services as a brave and loyal defender of the Union during the dark days of
the Civil war entitle him to his country's gratitude and led to his becoming a
member of the Grand Army of the Republic. His political allegiance is given
to the democratic party. In this county he married Miss Wilhelmina Schaucr,
and unto them were born four sons and a daughter, namely : William, who died
in infancy; Martin L., who is now circuit judge upon the bench at Juneau; Clara
M., at home; Robert W., who is practicing law at Watertown, Wisconsin; and
ARTHUR W. LUECK.
Arthur W.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
61
The last named pursued his early education in the schools of his native city
while spending his youthful days under the parental roof. Attracted to a profes-
sional career, he determined to make the practice of law his life work and with
that end in view entered the university at Madison, being graduated from the
law department with the class of 1907. On the 26th of June of the same year
he came to Beaver Dam and opened an office. Here he has since remained and
has made steady progress in his profession, never failing to give his cases thor-
ough preparation, while in their presentation before court and jury he is force-
ful, logical and convincing. He has been associated in practice with Congress-
man M. E. Burke, but it is individual effort and ability that win success at the
bar and through his own well developed powers Mr. Lueck has gained his pres-
ent creditable position as a lawyer.
On the 20th of August, 1908, Mr. Lueck was married to Miss Wanda Krue-
ger, of Watertown, Wisconsin, and they have one son, William O. Mr. Lueck
votes with the democratic party and keeps well informed on the questions and
issues of the day, but does not seek nor desire office. Fraternally he is con-
nected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and with the Woodmen of
the World, and in those associations finds pleasant companionship. His friends,
however, are by no means limited to the membership of those orders for he
is well known in this part of the state and wherever known is held in high esteem.
J. I. MARQUART.
J. I. Marquart is a well known and successful representative of business
interests in Beaver Dam as the president and treasurer of the Beaver Dam Bot-
tling Company, which he established in 1904. His birth occurred in 1877, his
parents being John and Fredericka Marquart, both natives of Germany. The
father made his way to Wisconsin in 1840, settling in Green Lake county, where
he followed agricultural pursuits throughout his active life. For the past two
decades he has lived in honorable retirement. Mr. and Mrs. John Marquart
were married in 1859 and reared the following children: Ella, Emma, August,
Henry, William, John, J. I., Sarah and Alice.
J. I. Marquart attended the public schools of Green Lake county until sev-
enteen years of age and then turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits,
being engaged in farming until 1898. The next six years were spent at Mark-
esan, Green I^ake county, and in 1904 he established the firm of Marquart &
Matthews, which three years later was incorporated for fifteen thousand dollars,
under the name of the Beaver Dam Bottling Company. Its officers are as fol-
lows: J. I. Marquart, president and treasurer; and Edward L. Arndt, secretary
and vice president. They have built up and now conduct an extensive business
as general bottlers and manufacturers of soft drinks, sodas, etc. The present
building of the concern, which is fully equipped with all modern machinery,
was erected in 1909, is two stories high and covers fifty by thirty-two feet.
As the head of the company Mr. Marquart has displayed high executive ability
and sound judgment and has won a place among the leading and representa-
tive business men of his community.
62
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
In 1907 Mr. Marquart was united in marriage to Miss Belle Ridings, a
daughter of Joseph Ridings, of Beaver Dam. In politics he is a republican.
Mr. Marquart's fraternal associations are with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows and the Eagles. He has ever believed that integrity and straightfor-
ward dealing go hand in hand with success and his own life record is a veri-
fication of this belief.
James E. Malone, a member of the Beaver Dam bar and not unknown in
democratic circles in this state, has through continuously broadening experience
and study become qualified for the more important work of the practitioner and
has been connected with considerable notable litigation of this state. Beaver
Dam is his native city and the day of his birth was November 7, 1853. His
parents, John and Mary (McCabe) Malone, were natives of Ireland and for a
time lived in Franklin county. New York, but came to Beaver Dam in 1851.
The father, a native of County Clare, Ireland, was sixteen years of age when,
about 1844, in company with his mother, two brothers and seven sisters, he ar-
rived in the United States, landing at Quebec, whence he made his way to Frank-
lin county, New York, where he remained until a year after his marriage. Fol-
lowing his removal westward to Dodge county he worked at Highland Prairie
for a year and then embarked in business on his own account as proprietor of a
grocery store at Beaver Dam, but his stock was destroyed in the great fire which
occurred in this city. He afterward established a brick yard which he conducted
until 1872, and then turned his attention to farming, which he followed for a
few years. He afterward conducted an auction store in Beaver Dam but later
lived retired until his death, which occurred in 1903. His widow survived him
for about three years, passing away in 1906. He was ever a man of genial spirit,
doing many good deeds not only to those who were bound to him by family ties
but to others as well. He served in several official positions in Beaver Dam. in-
cluding that of street commissioner and deputy sheriff. The religious faith of
himself and family was that of the Catholic church. While a resident of the
Empire state he was married to Mary McCabe. a daughter of James McCabe.
of County Cavan, Ireland, who brought his family to the United States about
1837 and settled in Franklin county, New York. It was in March, 1850, that
his daughter gave her hand in marriage in New York state, to John Malone.
and they became the parents of eleven children : Ellen, now deceased ; James E. ;
Anna Marie, the wife of Patrick Austin, of Michigan; John J., who has also
passed away; Patrick Henry, of Beaver Dam; Catherine, the wife of Henry
McCaffery, also of Beaver Dam; George, of Kenosha, Wisconsin; Rose, the wife
of John Gorman, of Beaver Dam; W. D., a Catholic priest of Kenosha; Michael
A., who is living in Missoula, Montana; and Mary, the wife of John Bassfield,
of Minnesota.
In the schools of his native city James E. Malone pursued his early educa-
tion and afterward attended St. Francis seminary at Milwaukee, later continu-
ing his studies in Wayland (Beaver Dam) Academy. Desiring to make the prac-
JAMES E. MALONE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
63
tice of law his life work he began reading in the office and under the direction
of Judge Edward Elwell, of this city, and was admitted to the bar in September,
1877. He then opened an office in Beaver Dam, but after practicing for a year
was elected clerk of the circuit court and removed to Juneau, on the 1st of Jan-
uary, 1879. He rilled that position most acceptably for six years and later was
elected district attorney, serving in that capacity for two years. He was then
appointed registrar of the land office at Perry, Oklahoma, in which position he
served in 1893-94. He afterward practiced law in Juneau until 191 1, when he
returned to Beaver Dam, where he is now following his profession, being ac-
corded a clientage that at once establishes his reputation as a leading and able
lawyer. Aside from the office which he has held in the strict path of his pro-
fession he has done other important public service. Governor Peck appointed
him as a commissioner to divide the counties of Ashland and Iron and on many
important questions he has been consulted by prominent party leaders. His po-
sition is furthermore indicated by the fact that he was made a delegate to the
democratic national conventions of 1892, 1896 and 1900.
On the 1st of June, 1881, Mr. Malone was married to Miss Mary Burke,
of Watertown, Wisconsin, a daughter of Jeremiah and Bridget Burke, who were
natives of Limerick, Ireland, and came to the United States in early life. Mr.
and Mrs. Malone have a family of six children: Mary Patricia, who is in the
office of her father; Rachel Isabel!, a teacher in Milwaukee; James F., who was
graduated from the University of Wisconsin in June, 191 1, and is now practicing
law with his father; Madeline A., who is attending school in Chicago; Donald,
also in school; and Genevieve, at home. Mr. Malone and his family are mem-
bers of St. Patrick's Catholic church and he holds membership with the Knights
of Columbus, the Catholic Knights and the Catholic Foresters. He is also con-
nected with the Knights of Pythias. His memory goes back to the period when
there were many Indians in this part of the state and when great stretches of
forest stood in their primeval strength. He has lived to witness almost the
entire growth and development of this region and his influence and aid have al-
ways been given on the side of progress and improvement. At the same time
his official and professional duties have been in no wise neglected, his devotion to
both having become proverbial.
OTTO F. ILLING.
Otto F. Illing has for twenty-three years been a resident of Juneau, where
until recently he has been engaged in the manufacture of cigars. His birth oc-
curred at Jefferson, Wisconsin, on the 10th of June, 1863, and he is a son of
Charles and Lenora (Scidlcr) Illing. The parents were both born in Bavaria,
Germany, in 1841, the mother's natal day being October 28. When a child of
five years. Charles Illing came to America with his parents, who first settled in
Buffalo, New York. From there they went to Milwaukee, this state, and later
they located in Jefferson, where he subsequently learned the tinner's trade, was
married and has ever since made his home. Of the three children born to Mr.
and Mrs. Illing. the son Otto F., is the eldest. Their only daughter, Ida, the
64
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
widow of Enos Seitz, is residing in Jefferson, while Frank, the youngest member
of the family, is deceased. The father was actively engaged in business for
many years, thus accumulating sufficient means to enable him to spend his latter
years in retirement.
The education of Otto F. Uling was acquired in the public schools of his
native city. Upon the completion of his course of study he learned the tinner's
trade from his father, remaining at home until he had attained his majority.
He followed his trade in Jefferson for two years and then engaged in the manu-
facture of cigars in the same place. In 1889, he came to Juneau and established
a cigar factory, which he operated until April, 1912, when he became identified
with other activities.
At Jefferson, this state, on the 22d of February, 1887, Mr. Illing was mar-
ried to Miss Anna Spangler, whose birth there occurred on the 10th of March,
1865. She is a daughter of Michael and Anna (Hummel) Spangler, natives of
Bavaria, Germany. The father was a farmer. Mrs. Illing, who is the eighth
in order of birth in a family of nine, has but a vague recollection of her parents,
both of whom passed away during her early childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Illing
have one daughter, Ida Eva, who is living at home. She was born in Juneau.
Although he is not affiliated with any religious denomination, Mr. Illing
attends the Roman Catholic church. Politically he supports the democratic party
and is now serving his second term as city clerk. He is now deputy clerk
of the court and he was city assessor for one term, creditably discharging the
duties of both offices.
Carl Firehammer was until recently the owner and active manager of a large
lumberyard and planing mill in Horicon, Wisconsin, and was also active in the
building and contracting business, a natural evolution of his first small carpen-
tering enterprise. In 191 2 he disposed of his business to his son William and
retired from active labors, although the business is still conducted under the firm
name of C. Firehammer & Sons, as it has been for over twenty years. He is in
all essential respects a self-made man and the earnest and straightforward struc-
ture of his life reflects credit upon the builder. He was born in Dabercow, in
the province of Pommern, Germany, on May 23, 184 1, and is a son of John
and Lottie (Schultz) Firehammer, both of whom were born in that section, the
father in 1810 and the mother in 1821. John Firehammer was a blacksmith
by trade and left his native country in 1854 coming to Dodge county, Wisconsin,
on January 1, 1855. He located on a farm in Herman township which was at
that time partly improved. He built a shop upon his land and engaged for sev-
eral years in general farming and blacksmithing. At the end of that time he
sold his holdings and moved to Fond du Lac county where he followed agricul-
tural pursuits until his death which occurred when he was fifty-nine years old.
Before he left his native country he had completed his term of service in the
German army. His wife passed away in Fond du Lac county when she was
eighty-five years old.
CARL FIREHAMMER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
65
Carl Firehammer received his education in the public schools of Germany
and came to America with his parents when he was thirteen years of age. He
aided his father in the work of the farm and was, until he was eighteen, engaged
in sawmilling when he could. He worked his way up in this occupation until
he was the head sawyer in a mill in Herman township where he remained for
three seasons. He then removed to the vicinity of Wausau where he operated
a mill of the same character and also engaged in millwright work. In 1868 he
established his residence in Horicon and has since been a resident of that city.
He began carpentering first working by the day and for a number of years was
active in this branch of labor. He saved his money and was able at length to
build a shop where he carried on general carpenter and repair work and eventually
branched out into the building of new structures. He sometimes employed at
this time from three to four men and his enterprise grew and expanded rapidly.
During the winters he worked for the Van Brunt Company in their plant. He
continued adding to the various departments of his business and pursued a con-
stant policy of conservative expansion. In connection with carpenter work he
operated a small circular saw table, which was then the most modem thing of
the kind. In 1890 he installed a twenty horse-power steam engine which he used
for operating his machinery for planing and sawing until 1907. In that year
his business had grown so materially that he was justified in erecting a modern
plant for the housing of his machinery and lumber. In the same year, however,
the structure was destroyed by fire and he suffered a considerable loss. He,
however, immediately rebuilt and the plant is now the only modern and thor-
oughly equipped enterprise of its kind in HOricon. It occupies a space of four
city lots and is an example of modern business architecture. Mr. Firehammer
carried an extensive stock of lumber and equipments and dealt also in coal,
wood and cement. Besides this he added to his activities a contracting and build-
ing department which formed an important source of his income. He is not
only an expert in the mechanical and technical details of the business but is a
shrewd business man with a comprehensive grasp of modern conditions and of
the economic phases which influence them. His ability along this line is coupled
with an honesty that is unquestioned and a sincerity of purpose which is beyond
all doubt and these qualities were the foundation of his success. In 1912 Mr.
Firehammer disposed of his business to his son William, and lives now retired
from active business cares.
On December 2, 1867, Mr. Firehammer was united in marriage to Miss Caro-
line Franke, a native of Altruetnitz, in the province of Brandenburg, Germany,
where her birth occurred on April 4, 1848. She is a daughter of Louis and
Louisa (Lange) Franke, who came to America about 1855, settling in Dodge
county just south of Hustisford on a farm. The father devoted the principal
part of his life to agricultural pursuits, but during the last years lived retired
in Horicon. He died, however, in Warren, Illinois, where he had gone to make
his home with his oldest son. His wife passed away some years previously.
To Mr. and Mrs. Firehammer have been born nine children: Edward, who is
a carpenter and builder in Horicon ; William, who purchased his father's busi-
ness; Helena, the wife of Ernest Marquardt, who is identified with the business
established by our subject; George, who is carrying on a general merchandise
business in Bridgeman, Michigan; Herman, who died at the age of fourteen
66
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
years; Carl, who met his death by drowning in his thirteenth year; Tillie, who
lives at home ; Arthur, who is a clerk in his father's office in Horicon ; and Paul,
who is a member of the United States navy holding a position as electrician.
In his political views Mr. Firehammer is consistently republican and served
for five years with great ability as member of the Horicon village board and
later of the city council in which he did four years' service. He has built up
within the community a modern, prosperous and important enterprise, which is
a valuable private and public asset, although he holds his success secondary to
the principles and straightforward methods by which it has been attained.
Emil W. Simon is a master machinist and has done expert technical work
along this line. He is now general superintendent of the Van Brunt Company
in their machine works at Horicon and in this broader field of activity has dis-
played business sagacity and a power of organization and control. He was
born in Zahden, province of Brandenburg, Germany, August 4, 1872, and is a
son of William and Louisa (Hochschildt) Simon. His father was in his early
years a stone mason and he followed that occupation in Germany until the spring
of 1873, at which time he came to America and located in Horicon. He con-
tinued at his chosen occupation in the summer and during the winter season
worked at the Van Brunt factory. He continued to be active in both these lines
until his retirement. He is still residing in Horicon, his wife having passed
away in 1898.
Emil Simon is the sixth in a family of seven children born to his parents.
He was educated in the Horicon public schools and has been a resident of that
village from his early childhood. By the time he was eighteen years of age he
had practically learned the machinist's trade and obtained employment in the
plant of the Van Brunt Company. He has been in the service of this firm con-
tinuously since that time with the exception of thirteen months which time he
spent as an employe of the Allis-Chalmers Company in Milwaukee, in 1897. Mr.
Simon is a man who gets results. His promotion has been rapid but is well
deserved and based on merit. He was in 1898 advanced to the position of fore-
man over the machine department and after seven years of conspicuously able
work in this capacity was placed in charge of the entire factory and is now
general superintendent. His faculty for materializing his ambitions has re-
dounded not only in his own prosperity but to the advantage of the company
which employs him. He has an expert knowledge of the details of the occupa-
tion with which he is connected and a power in managing men. He has gained suc-
cess during the years which he has been superintendent and his prosperity is the
natural result of his efficiency.
On November 24. 1897, Mr. Simon was united in marriage to Miss Kath-
arine Frie, who was born in Cambria, Columbia county, March y. 1875. She
is a daughter of Ferdinand and Augusta (Laper) Frie, natives of Germany, who
came to America in 1855. Their marriage occurred in this-countrv and the father
followed his occupation of shoemaker for some years at Ripon. Wisconsin, and
EMIL W. SIMON.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
67
later at Kingston, removing from that city to Cambria. He later fanned in
Columbia county and after some time removed to Fairwater where he and his
wife are now residing. To Mr. and Mrs. Simon have been born four children:
Merlin William, born April 30, 1899; Esther Henrietta, whose birth occurred on
the 5th of April, 1902; Florence Margaret, born August 28, 1905; and Harold,
whose birth occurred on the 7th of April, 1912.
In his political affiliations Mr. Simon is republican and has served as a mem-
ber of the city council for four years and as deputy sheriff for two years. He
is prominent in the Masonic order and active in the affairs of the Modern Wood-
men of America, of which organization he is at the present time, clerk. He has
proved his ability by handling affairs with which he is entrusted and has stood
excellently the hard test of responsibility. He works conscientiously and sin-
cerely in the promotion of his employers' interests, making them one with his
own.
JOSEPH EDGAR SAWYER.
J. Edgar Sawyer is one of the oldest native sons of Dodge county, Wiscon-
sin, and was born on January 13, 1848, in the first log house ever built on Rolling
Prairie, in what is now Burnett township, section 32. He is a son of Lewis and
Sarah (Sandborn) Sawyer, the former of whom was born in Orford, New
Hampshire, January 23, 1819, of English stock, settling in Massachusetts in
1836, and the latter at Barnston, Canada, in 1821, her parents being natives of
New England. The father in early life engaged in teaching and was also promi-
nent as an agriculturist. He came west in 1841 and located at Watertown, where
he worked at various occupations for a few months. He made the journey by
stage to Albany and thence by canal and lake to Milwaukee. From Watertown
he came to Hyland Prairie after a short period in the employ of Dennison &
Cole. He received a salary of ten dollars per month, while his fellow laborers
received eight dollars. He remained at Hyland Prairie with M. B. Hall, with
whom he later took up a claim on the southwestern part of Burnett township.
He afterward sold this property but in 1842 purchased land on section 32 and
moved upon his holdings. He built the lug cabin in which the subject of this
review was born and began the active cultivation of his farm. He was success-
ful in general agricultural pursuits and was well known as a prosperous stock-
raiser. He was in many ways a truly remarkable man. He was identified with
the growth and upbuilding of Dodge county and was the first coroner of that
section, holding this office in 1846. He conducted the first inquest ever held in
Dodge county and served as justice of the peace for the Winnebago precinct in
the same year. He was assessor several times and held many other responsible
public offices. In 1865 he joined the Methodist Episcopal church but before this
time had had no religious connections. He became a Mason in 1858, and was
subsequently made a Royal Arch Mason, and all during his life kept up his inter-
est in that organization. He was well educated for his times and a broad and
intelligent reader. Impatient of shams and deceits he was very strong in Ins
convictions of right and wrong. His wife died April 5. 1854. leaving two chil-
68
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
dren : Francis L. k who went to California in 1893 on account of failing health and
who died at Westmoreland in that state, December 27, 1910; and Joseph Edgar,
the subject of this sketch. In December, 1854, the father of our subject was
again married. His second wife was Miss Hannah Wilson and to this union
was born one child, who passed away at the age of two years. The second
Mrs. Sawyer died in Horicon in 1906, at the home of J. Edgar Sawyer.
J. Edgar Sawyer was educated in the public schools of Wisconsin and re-
mained at home until his marriage. At that time he built a house upon a por-
tion of his father's farm, which then comprised four hundred acres. He pur-
chased eighty acres of land and continued to reside upon it until 1887. He
had met with an unfortunate accident in the previous year, having fallen from
a hayfork and dislocated his spine. He was obliged to change his occupation
and in 1887 went to Hartford in order to join his cousin, Judge Sawyer, in the
law business. He was one of the prominent practitioners in Hartford until
the spring of 1890, when he moved his office to Horicon and followed his pro-
fession here for one year. Legal success requires an acute mind, a systematic
and accurate knowledge and a fearlessness of conviction. All of these qualities
Mr. Sawyer possesses in an unusual degree and upon them he has founded his
prosperity. He was a strong and able practitioner and during the years of his
connection with the law gained well deserved prominence. In 1891 he abandoned
his practice in order to engage in the newspaper business, in which he continued
until 1897. Since that time he has served as justice of the peace and here his
legal knowledge and the quality of his mind have won him rapid and continued
prominence. During his term of service there have been numbers of cases
appealed but in none has the verdict been reversed.
On February 17, 1870, Mr. Sawyer was united in marriage to Miss Marie
F.. Warner, who was born at Hazel Green, Wisconsin, May 4, 1850, and who is
a daughter of Theodore and Elizabeth (Langley) Warner. The father was a
native of New York state, having been born near the Pennsylvania line, and
during his early years he was a school teacher. He later took up the trade of
carpentering and after establishing his residence in Horicon was given a position
as foreman in a sash and blind factory. His death occurred in Dodge county.
His wife was a native of Indiana and died at Horicon in 1893. To Mr. and
Mrs. Sawyer have been born two children, Ethelda Marie, who was born on
January 4, 1871, and who is the wife of Fredcrique P. Bird, of Horicon, a
traveling salesman in the employ of a large manufacturing plant at Erie. Penn-
sylvania. Mrs. Bird became the mother of five children, Frederick Edgar, Sawyer
Wylie, Bessie Marie, Gilbert and Ethelda Putnam, all of whom live at home. The
other child born to Mr. and Mrs. Sawyer is Lewis Edgar, whose birth occurred on
the nth of December, 1875, and who is a resident of Muskegon, Michigan, where
he is a draftsman and artist.
In his politics Mr. Sawyer is a democrat and has served as coroner of Dodge
county and has been notary public for twenty-four years. He served for twenty-
one years with ability and efficiency as city clerk and is now in the nineteenth
year of his activity as justice of the peace. He is also deputy county surveyor
and his political life is marked by the same energy, activity and broad-minded-
ness which have distinguished his business and legal career. He is a prominent
Mason, holding membership in the lodge, chapter and council. In his identifi-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cation with this organization he is keeping up the traditions of his family, all
the representatives of which have belonged to the Masonic order. Mr. Saw-
yer is among the most estimable and prominent of the older generation in Hori-
con. He is interested in the growth of his city and county and his energy and
upright standards cause him to be regarded in Horicon as one of its most repre-
sentative citizens, whose energies are always directed along constructively pro-
gressive lines, and who in public life has constantly followed standards of high
conscientiousness and ideals of personal service.
WILLIAM FALKINHAM.
William Falkinham who died in Horicon, February 14, 1910, was a native
son of Dodge county and for many years one of the most substantial and enter-
prising agriculturists in this section of the state. He gave the best and most
forceful years of his life to promoting agricultural development in the county
in which he was born, and was a loyal and public-spirited citizen whose personal
prosperity was only an element in his broader attainment as a force in progress.
He was born at Burnett Junction, October 4, 1855, a son °* Richard A. and
Sophronia (Jewett) Falkinham, the former a native of Boston, Massachusetts,
born October 10, 1813, and the latter born in New Hampshire, July 7 of the
same year. The father followed the trade of cabinet-maker until 1840, when
he came to Wisconsin, settling on a farm in Burnett" Junction, where for six-
teen years he cultivated the soil, meeting with a gratifying measure of success
by reason of energy and well directed enterprise. In 1900 he retired and moved
to Minnesota Junction for a few years and then returned to the farm where he
died May 3, 19x29. He had long survived his wife, who passed away November
18, 1856.
William Falkinham was the youngest of a family of seven children. He
received his primary education in the public schools of Stone's Corners and com-
pleted his studies at the Horicon high school. When he was fifteen years of
age he laid aside his books and began working upon neighboring farms, follow-
ing this line of occupation until he went to the lumber camps in the northern
woods. He married when he was twenty-one years of age and immediately
afterward returned to Dodge county where he worked upon a farm belonging
to his father. He lived and worked on this place for eight years. At the expi-
ration of that period he went to Ingels, Michigan, and there became superin-
tendent in a mill yard. For twelve years he held this position and then at his
father's request came back to the farm, receiving a deed to one hundred acres
of the property, and from that time until his retirement gave his best energies
to its development and improvement. That he was successful is evidenced by
the attractive condition to which he brought the farm and by the substantial
income which he derived from its operation. On September 1, 1909, he dis-
posed of his property and bought a comfortable residence and three city lots
in Horicon, where he resided until his death.
Mr. Falkinham married October 9, 1876, Miss Lorcta Corey, who was born
in Hubbard township, June 17, 1857. She is a daughter of Hiram and Char-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
lottc (Mace) Corey, the former born in Rutland, Vermont, September 20, 1833,
and the latter in Sparta, New York, January 9. 1838. Their marriage occurred
in Hubbard township in 1856, the father having come west when he was a
young man. For many years before and after his marriage he was a charcoal
burner but later engaged in farming and threshing, following both occupations
until his retirement in 1911. He had invested extensively in Michigan land, own-
ing two hundred acres of fine farming property in that state but never became
a land owner in Dodge county. Since he abandoned active life he has resided
in Stevenson township, Menominee county, Michigan. He was an honored vet-
eran of the Civil war, having served for three years in Company D, Twenty-
ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He was present at many of the important
engagements during the hostilities and was wounded in the hip but was never
taken prisoner. With the exception of his three years' service he followed gen-
eral farming during practically all his active life and became known as one of
the individual factors in the agricultural growth of Dodge county. His wife
died March 3, 1910.
Mr. and Mrs. Falkinham had four children. Marion A., who was born July
22, 1878, married Miss Nellie Keys, of Burnett Junction, and is employed as
tester and repair man for the Van Brunt Company. Alfred L., who was born
June 19, 1880, married Miss Anna Wolfgram, and is engaged in farming on
the farm formerly owned by his grandfather. Eva C. S., whose birth occurred
April 30, 1882, is the widow of William Sutherland, of Burnett Junction, by
whom she had one child, Melody, born September 27, 1906. Mr. Sutherland
was engaged in farming until his death which occurred July II, 1909. Mrs.
Sutherland is residing with her mother. May, the youngest member of the
family, was born June 7, 1885, and resides with her mother.
Mr. Falkinham gave his allegiance to the republican party but never sought
political office. He was well known in the affairs of the Woodmen of America
and was a prominent member of the Knights of the Maccabees, becoming iden-
tified with that organization while a resident of Michigan. He was regarded as
one of the most deservedly prosperous farmers in this section of Wisconsin and
his death deprived Dodge county of a native son whose industry and ability had
made him successful in business and highly respected among his fellow citizens.
Dr. H. J. S. Anderson, successfully engaged in the practice of veterinary
surgery at Beaver Dam, was born in London, England, November 2, 1874, a son
of David W. and Annie (Snelgrove) Anderson and a brother of C. J. Ander-
son of the British navy, who is an artificer and engineer.
H. J. S. Anderson pursued his education in his native country, attending
St. Margaret's school. For a year he was out of school but afterward spent
another year at the Archbishop Tennyson school, after which he made his in-
itial step in the business world, serving a four years' apprenticeship to an Eng-
lish veterinarian. He afterward took up the study of veterinary surgery in
Edinburgh, Scotland, and there remained in active practice until he came to
H. J. S. ANDERSON. D. V. S.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
71
America in 1896. He began practice in this country as assistant to Dr. C. C.
Taylor of Milwaukee, remaining with him until September, when he removed
to the west. He followed various occupations in Arizona, New Mexico and
Colorado but afterward again came to the east and located at Fox Lake, Wis-
consin, where he remained for about a year. He then opened an office in
Beaver Dam and entered into partnership with the late Dr. J. L. Scott. At
length he bought out his partner's interest and has continued alone in practice,
receiving a liberal share of the public support.
In October, 1904, Dr. Anderson was married to Miss M. R. Lander, a
granddaughter of the late Judge H. W. Lander of Beaver Dam and a sister of
Florence W. Lander, now the wife of Amos G. Baker. Unto Dr. and Mrs.
Anderson has been born a daughter, J. Anderson, whose birth occurred January
29, 1906, and who is now in school. The parents are well known socially in
Beaver Dam, where they have made many friends during the period of their
residence here, while the Doctor has become well established professionally,
being accorded a liberal and well merited patronage.
JOHN C. HEALY.
The legal profession in Beaver Dam finds a worthy representative in John
C. Healy, who since admitted to practice has made constant progress at the bar,
his knowledge of the law and the correct application thereof being evidenced
in his successful conduct of his cases. Beaver Dam numbers him among her
native sons. His parents, John and Jane (Cassidy) Healy, natives of Ireland,
came to Beaver Dam in 1856 and were married here in 1865. The father fol-
lowed the occupation of farming and continued a resident of Dodge county until
his death in 1903. He is still survived by his widow who is a communicant of
St. Patrick's Catholic church, of which Mr. Healy was also a member. His
political allegiance was given to the democratic party and he aided in guiding
the affairs of his city as a member of the council for two terms. Unto him and
his wife were born four children, of whom John C. is the eldest. The second,
James T. Healy, born in Beaver Dam, is a graduate of the high school and also
of the State University at Madison with the class of 1896. For eight years he
engaged successfully in teaching as principal of the Milton Junction high school
and in 1904, having pursued a thorough course of law, was admitted to the bar.
Since that time or for a period of eight years he has successfully engaged in the
practice of law in Beaver Dam. He carefully and systematically prepares his
cases and presents his evidence in a clear, logical manner, applying considerately
the principles of law. He has served also as school commissioner. Rosa, the
third member of the family, died at the age of fifteen years. Michael, the
youngest, is still living in Beaver Dam.
John C. Healy attended the high school of this city and was graduated from
the University of Wisconsin in 1892, with the degree of LL. B. He too, success-
fully taught for a period, being for eight years connected with the Pionono
College of Milwaukee as a teacher in the department of science. After reading
law he was admitted to the bar in 1898 and in 1900 began practice in Beaver
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Dam, where he has since remained, being associated with his brother James T.,
since 1904. His work in this connection has been successful and he is justly
accounted one of the leading lawyers of his native city. The cause of education
has found in him a warm friend and for two years, from 1902 until 1904, he
served as superintendent of schools. He is city attorney at the present time,
having filled the position continuously since 1908. His fraternal relations are
with the Knights of Columbus. He is justly accounted one of the representative
residents of Beaver Dam and has a circle of warm friends in this city, being
most highly esteemed where best known.
The Spring Brook stock farm, comprising two hundred and thirty acres ot
well improved land, is located on sections 6, 2 and it, Shields township, and in
its equipment fully meets every requirement for a model agricultural enterprise.
Its owner, Frank F. Plasil, is known throughout Dodge county as an excep-
tionally able farmer and stock-raiser, progressive in his methods and exacting
in his standards, and he has won a distinct and substantial success, which places
him in the front rank of prosperous agriculturists. A -native of Dodge county
and a son of one of its most prominent pioneers, Mr. Plasil was born in Shields
township, on his present farm, December 4, 1868. His father, Joseph Plasil,
was a native of Bohemia and grew to manhood in that country. After he had
attained his majority he was attracted by the opportunities which America offered
and crossed the Atlantic to Maryland, settling in that state in 1861. In Bohemia
Mr. Plasil had learned the carpenter's trade and had worked at it for some
time, but he abandoned it in Maryland to engage in teaming, acting in the service
of the Federal government during the Civil war. In 1863 he pushed westward
to Wisconsin and settled in Watertown, where he worked at his trade and at
anything else which would bring him an income. By economy and hard work
he saved out of his earnings enough money to purchase forty acres of land,
which forms a part of the present homestead. He located upon this property
and cleared the timber from a small portion, upon which he built a log cabin,
in which he resided while carrying forward the work of development. As his
financial resources grew and his harvests increased he bought more land, adding
to his holdings from time to time until he owned two hundred and ten acres.
Upon this property he erected a fine modern house to replace his original cabin,
built barns, granaries and silos and in every way possible added to the excellent
condition of the farm. A large portion of it he planted in fruit trees and upon
the remainder carried on general agricultural pursuits, gaining added prosperity
and success with every year. He passed away when he was seventy-three years
of age, and his death was widely regretted in the section to which he came as a
pioneer and where his sterling qualities of mind and character had endeared
him to a large circle of friends. His wife survives him and makes her home
with her son, the subject of this review. She has reached the age of seventy-six.
Frank F. Plasil is one of a family of two children. His elder brother,
Joseph ]., is a successful and prominent farmer in Dodge county. Mr. Plasil
FRANK F. PLASIL.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
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of this review was reared upon the family homestead and from an early age
was identified with the arduous labor of clearing timber and grubbing up stumps.
He received his primary education in the public schools of his district and sup-
plemented this by a course in the Watertown high school. After his father's
death he succeeded to a portion of the home farm, which included the family
residence, and he purchased more land and steadily carried forward the work
of improvement and development. Nothing in the way of modern equipment
is lacking upon the property and the excellent improvements which Mr. Plasil
has made are all of a substantial and lasting kind. His residence is one of the
finest in Dodge county and fitted with all modern conveniences and accessories.
It is heated by hot water, has hot and cold water in the bathroom and other
parts of the house, and the light is furnished by gasoline. All the other build-
ings upon the property are of the same modern and substantial kind. Upon
this property Mr. Plasil does general farming, specializing in the raising of
high-grade Holstein cattle. In addition to this he has for some years been en-
gaged in the dairy business, his dairy products commanding a ready sale and a
high price on the market. He was one of the promoters and is the president
of the Liberty Cheese & Butter Association and has other important business
interests.
Mr. Plasil married, in St. Henry's church in Watertown, in October, 1905,
Miss Alice Rhobsky, who was born and educated in Shields township. She is a
daughter of Wenzel Rhobsky, who resides in Watertown. Mr. and Mrs. Plasil
have four children, Francis, Alta, William and Joseph. The family are devout
adherents of the Roman Catholic church and regular attendants at St. Joseph's
church in Rich wood.
Mr. Plasil gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is a stanch sup-
porter of the principles and policies for which the party stands, although his
public spirit never takes the form of office seeking. He has won a creditable
position in farming circles of Dodge county. His steady work, his well tried
integrity and his progressive business methods have won their natural reward
and he is respected and esteemed wherever he is known.
THEODORE P. HEMMY.
A worthy representative of the banking interests of Juneau is Theodore P.
Hemmy, one of the founders of the Citizens Bank, in which institution he has
held the office of cashier ever since its organization. His birth occurred in
Watertown, this state, on the 20th of April, 1862, his parents being Christian
and Georgiana ( Schnekcnburger) Hemmy. He is of German extraction in both
lines as the names suggest, the father having been born in Switzerland, his natal
day being in January, 1840, and the mother in Germany, in April, 1836. In his
youth Christian Hemmy learned the trade of harness making, which vocation he
followed for about fifteen years. During the childhood of his son he removed
with his family to Beaver Dam, this county, and there he subsequently became
identified with political activities. In 1874, he was elected register of deeds of
Dodge county, and as he was an efficient and capable official was twice honored
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
with reelection. Upon the expiration of his term he returned to Beaver Dam,
where he served as city clerk until his death in 1886. He was long survived by
the mother, who passed away in April, 1909. They were both members of the
Roman Catholic church.
The education of Theodore P. Hemmy was begun in the Cathdlic parochial
school in St. Peter's parish, Beaver Dam, and completed in St. Francis' normal
school. At the age of eighteen years he was taken into his father's office as deputy
register of deeds, and upon the expiration of the latter's period of service he
was retained in the same capacity, discharging the duties of this position for
twelve years. At the expiration of that period he identified himself with the
real-estate and abstract interests of the city, but severed his connection with
this business two years later in order to assume the duties of his present posi-
tion. His wide acquaintance in the community and his thorough knowledge of
the property interests as well as his familiarity with local business conditions
generally well qualified him for the responsibilities of this office. A pleasing
personality and genial nature have been the means of winning him a large circle
of friends, and to this fact as well as his recognized business integrity and abil-
ity can be attributed much of the bank's success. It is one of the conservative
and well established financial institutions of the county, with a capital stock and
surplus of forty thousand dollars. In addition to his duties in this connection,
Mr. Hemmy is also secretary and treasurer of the Dodge County Title & Ab-
stract Company. He is likewise president of the Standard Cigar Company and
is extensively interested in the Oak Point Farms, which is devoted to the breed-
ing and raising of high-grade registered Holstein-Friesian cattle.
On the 28th of October, 1886, Mr. Hemmy was married to Miss Bessie Rich,
whose birth occurred in Juneau on the 6th of September, 1865. She is a daugh-
ter of Joel and Helen M. (Hart) Rich, well known pioneer settlers of this city.
The father was a native of New York, his birth having occurred in Tompkins
county, in 1824, and the mother was born at Albany, New York, her natal year
being 1839. In 1842 when eighteen years of age, Joel Rich came to Dodge county
and bought land from the government, a part of which is now inside the city
limits of Juneau. He then returned to New York for two years, taking up his
permanent residence at Juneau in 1844. He was instrumental in having the court
house located at Juneau. Politically he was a democrat. He built the first house
in Juneau and the first dam at Horicon. During the Civil war he was elected state
senator. In 1873 he was appointed by Governor Taylor director of the state prison
at Waupun and later received the appointment of deputy warden, filling that posi-
tion for several years. Joel Rich was identified with the farming interests of Dodge
county during practically all of his life here, but during a part of this time was
also engaged in the lumber and contracting business. At the time of his death,
which occurred in Juneau in July, 1906, he was living retired. He is survived
by the mother, who continues to make her home in Juneau. One son has been
born to Mr. and Mrs. Hemmy, Arthur R., whose natal day was March 24, 1890.
He resides at home and is directing his business career along the same lines as
his father, being bookkeeper of the Citizens Bank, auditor of the Home Invest-
ment Company and also secretary and treasurer of the Oak Point Farms.
Mr. Hemmy is a member of the local camp of the Modern Woodmen of
America and he also belongs to the Knights of Columbus. In matters of religious
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
77
faith he is a Roman Catholic. His political views conform to the principles of
the democratic party, on which ticket he has thrice been elected mayor of the
city, discharging the duties of his office with the general efficiency which char-
acterizes anything he undertakes. Mr. Hemmy is a man of sufficient versatility
and mental grasp to retain the essential details of a variety of business interests
and successfully direct their development, as is evidenced by the thriving con-
dition of the enterprises with which he is identified. He earnestly applies him-
self to anything he undertakes, with the firm resolution of making it a success,
and as a result he creditably acquits himself in every capacity, and has acquired
the reputation of being one of the substantial and capable business men of the
community.
FRANK BODDEN.
Frank Hodden is prominent and well known in the lumber business at Hori-
con, being secretary and treasurer of an important enterprise of this kind. He
was born in Theresa, October 18, 1871, a son of Jacob and Gertrude (Schiefer)
Bodden, natives of Cologne, Germany. They came to Dodge county in 1849 and
in this section their marriage occurred. The father later took up government
land in the northwest corner of Washington county and after clearing a part
of his claim found that his farm was a part of another tract and abandoning
his property, he went to Theresa where he cleared another farm and thereon
resided until his death in February, 1889. He was well known in political circles
of that district and for two terms served in the state legislature. He was also
county treasurer and sheriff and chairman of the board of supervisors for several
terms, discharging his public duties ably and conscientiously. His wife is resid-
ing with her daughter in Oshkosh.
Frank Bodden is the eighth in a family of thirteen children. He attended
the first public schools in Juneau and later went to the district and parochial
schools at Theresa, completing his education by a course in the Spencerian
Business College at Milwaukee. He remained at home until the fall of 1889
when he went to Milwaukee and in that city obtained employment with the
Ruedeburg & Bodden Company, manufacturers of vinegar and compressed yeast.
From 1890 until 1895 he retained this position and then on July 24 of the latter
year, established himself in the lumber business at Horicon in partnership with
his brother John. This association continued until the fall of 1906 when another
brother, Henry, was taken into the business and the enterprise incorporated with
Mr. Bodden as secretary and treasurer. The business has gradually expanded
under his management and is now operating not only the home office but also a
branch business at Burnett Junction. Mr. Bodden is well known in local com-
mercial circles as a man of ability in the handling of important affairs and has
made the enterprise of which he is the head, prosperous and rapidly expanding.
He is interested in the growth and welfare of the section in which he has resided
for many years and is active in important local enterprises, prominent among
which is the Horicon Telephone Company of which he is president. He also
holds the same office in the Wisconsin Retail Lumber Dealers Association.
78
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On February 12, 1902, Mr. Bodden was united in marriage to Miss Carrie
Wilcox, who was born in Oak Grove township. Mr. Bodden is a member of
the Roman Catholic and Mrs. Bodden of the Presbyterian church.
Mr. Bodden gives his allegiance to the democratic party and for six years
did able work as clerk of the school board. He was a member of the board of
aldermen for some time and for four years held the position of supervisor. He
has always been well known in local political circles and although the offices
which he held came to him entirely unsolicited, he proved himself in his discharge
of their duties an able and conscientious public servant.
JOHN FREEMAN.
John Freeman was born in Milwaukee, October 19, 1848, and died in Horicon
May 20, 1892. Thirty-five years of his life were spent in the latter city to which
he came as a child and during his active years he was employed by the Van
Brunt & Davis Company, one of the largest local industrial institutions. His
interests, therefore, were closely identified with those of the city in which he
resided and when he died his many friends in Horicon mourned a public-spirited
and loyal citizen. His parents, John and Catharine (Crine) Freeman, were
natives of County Sligo, Ireland, and were married in the land of Erin. The
father was a tailor by trade and when he came to Milwaukee about 1846, he
followed that occupation for some time. Later he went to Racine county and
then came to Horicon, settling in this city in 1857. John Freeman, Sr., died in
Horicon in 1902, having long survived his wife, who passed away in 1869.
John Freeman was the oldest in a family of six children. He came to Hori-
con with his parents when he was nine years of age and consequently most of
his education was received in the public schools of the village. When he left
high school at the age of sixteen he learned the iron-moulder's trade and when
he had mastered the details of this occupation, entered the employ of the Van
Brunt & Davis Company. In 1873 he was made foreman of the foundry, hold-
that position until 1890, when he was obliged to retire on account of failing
health.
On November 10, 1874, Mr. Freeman was married to Miss Susan Cody, who
was born in Horicon, January 19, 1854, a daughter of Edward and Susanna
(MacParland) Cody, the former a native of the city of Cork, Ireland, born in
1823, and the latter of County Armagh, Ireland, born July 13, 1828. They came
to America at different times and were married in New Bedford, Massachusetts,
in 1846. The father engaged in the mercantile business in Seneca, New York,
until 1853, when he came with his family to Horicon, where he bought govern-
ment land just south of the city, and upon this property spent the remainder of
his life. He died of typhoid fever in St. Mary's Hospital, Milwaukee, in 1861,
while he was a member of the Federal army, and his wife resided upon the
homestead until her death in 1904. To Mr. and Mrs. Freeman were born five
children. John Martin was born in Horicon, where he is employed as a ma-
chinist in the Van Brunt Company and is also a director of the Horicon City
band. He married Miss Marie Hclscr, of St. Paul, Minnesota. Alice M. is a
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
79
kindergarten teacher in the Horicon schools. She received her education in the
Horicon high school and in the Milwaukee State Normal. Charles £. is en-
gaged as a machinist in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. James P., who is employed
as an accountant in Janesville, married Miss Marian Glass, of Green Bay.
Robert, the youngest member of the family, is engaged as an express messenger
at Milwaukee.
Mr. Freeman was a devout adherent of the Roman Catholic church and
active in the affairs of the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. He was a charter
member of the branch of that organization which was founded at Juneau and
was later a charter member of the Horicon branch. He was a consistent demo-
crat and served with ability' and efficiency as a member of the village board,
bringing to his official life the same energy and industry which made his business
career successful. His death cut him off in the prime of his career when he
was only forty- four years of age, yet he had won a reputation as an honest,
straightforward and enterprising citizen, and he valued this as his greatest asset.
He was one of those reliable, upright, and honorable men who lead quiet and
useful lives and constitute the best portion of any community.
CORNELIUS G. SCHWALBACH, M. D.
Prominent among the members of the Juneau medical fraternity is Dr. Cor-
nelius G. Schwalbach, who has been engaged in practice here for the past fifteen
years. His birth occurred in Merton, Waukesha county, this state, on the nth
of February, 1874, his parents being George and Theresa (Stuesser) Schwalbach.
They were married in Washington county, Wisconsin, where the father was
likewise born and reared. He was of German extraction, as was also the mother,
and early devoted himself to mercantile pursuits, which he followed during the
remainder of his active life.
Upon the completion of his preliminary education, having resolved to became
a physician, Dr. Schwalbach matriculated in the medical department of the
Marquette University of this state. He was awarded the degree of M. D. on
the 31st of March, 1897, and immediately thereafter came to Juneau and estab-
lished an office. During the period of his residence here he has had ample
opportunity to prove his efficiency both as a general practitioner and surgeon,
and has been successful in building up a profitable practice. Constant study and
the knowledge to be gathered from a large and varied professional experience
have enabled him to make marked progress and he is now numbered among
the representative physicians of the town. He is one of the fortunate individuals
who in the choice of a life vocation happily alighted upon one for which he was
by nature well adapted, possessing the pleasing personality, sympathy, keen men-
tality and resourcefulness so essential to this profession. Dr. Schwalbach is a
man of more than average capability, force and enterprise, and is now contem-
plating the erection of a large sanitarium, which will be conducted along entirely
original lines', and in acordance with ideas of treatment evolved through his
personal experience and observation. Unlike the majority of the members of
his profession, he is a keen man of business and is interested in various local
enterprises.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
At Rubicon, Dodge county, Wisconsin, on the 24th of October, 1899, Dr.
Schwalbach was married to Miss Amalia La Buwi, the youngest daughter of
John and Johanna La Buwi. The father has for many years been identified with
the mercantile interests of Rubicon, where he still engages in business. One
daughter, Olivia, has been born to Dr. and Mrs. Schwalbach.
The family are all members of the Roman Catholic church, and fraternally
Dr. Schwalbach is affiliated with the Woodmen of the World, Modern Woodmen
of America, Catholic Knights and Knights of Columbus. In politics he is a
democrat and stanchly indorses the principles and candidates of that party.
Despite the exactions of his large private practice he has served for ten years as
city physician, while for four he acted in the same' capacity for the county. Dr.
Schwalbach owns a very attractive residence on Oak street and is one of the
permanent citizens of the town who takes an active and helpful interest in pro-
moting the development of the community. He is progressive yet practical in
his ideas and is always ready to give his support and cooperation to every move-
ment which he feels will advance the welfare of the majority and elevate the
moral, social or intellectual status.
H. F. KRUEGER.
H. F. Krueger is prominent in commercial circles of Horicon and is recog-
nized there as a business man who, by honorable and straightforward dealings,
universal courtesy, and intelligence, has founded a successful and important
enterprise. Mr. Krueger was born in Watertown, Wisconsin, March 26, 1857,
and is a son of Henry and Eva (Nigg) Krueger, the former a native of Meck-
lenburg, Germany, and the latter of Switzerland. The father was a baker by
trade and followed this occupation in his native country until 1850, when he
crossed the Atlantic locating in Watertown, where he operated a stage line
between that city and Milwaukee and between Fond du Lac and Oshkosh. He
continued in this occupation for about ten years but abandoned it in i860 in order
to take up the moving business. He received contracts from the railroads around
Watertown for moving elevators and was active in this occupation until 1881
when he retired. He always made his home in Watertown where he lived until
his death which occurred in 1892. His wife passed away in 1880. To their
union were born four children : H. F., the subject of this review ; Henry, who is
conducting a general merchandise and sporting goods store in Minneapolis;
Augusta, the widow of Charles DeSoth, who was president of a system of banks
at Albert Lea, Minnesota; and George, who passed away at the age of twelve
years.
H. F. Krueger was educated in the public schools of Watertown and at the
age of fourteen began his career. He entered a large general store in Beaver
Dam, where he clerked for ten years and gained a knowledge of modern business
conditions and methods of operation. In 1881 he came to Horicon where he
established himself in the general merchandise business and has maintained
a continuous residence there since that time. During the thirty-one years of
his activity he has built up a flourishing and successful enterprise conducted
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
81
along modern and progressive lines. He has that claim to prominence in busi-
ness circles of Horicon which lies in the able and intelligent management of a
successful establishment and by making his enterprise in detail well ordered and
systematic has made the whole an asset in his community.
On October 22, 1896, Mr. Krueger was united in marriage to Miss Matilda
E. Georgii, who was born in Rantoul, Wisconsin, on February 23, 1872, and
who is a daughter of Rev. E. C. Georgii. To their union was born one child,
Richard E., whose birth occurred on the 8th of June, 1903.
Mr. Krueger gives his allegiance to the republican party and for twelve
years was treasurer of the school board of Horicon, although he never seeks
public office. He is prominent as a Mason, holding membership in the Wiscon-
sin Consistory and the Mystic Shrine in Milwaukee, and also belongs to the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His store is one of the largest of its kind
in Horicon and has a complete line of groceries and general merchandise. He
devotes his entire time and attention to making his enterprise more flourishing
and prosperous and by intelligent and able promotion of his own prosperity has
been a factor in the general development of the community.
J. D. HILLIER.
J. D. Hillier, a well known dealer in monuments, is engaged in business
at Beaver Dam as proprietor of a marble-cutting establishment. His birth oc-
curred at Fox Lake, Dodge county, on the 2d of March, 1858, his parents being
Isaac and Elizabeth (Stunton) Hillier. The father, whose natal day was January
9, 1821, came to Wisconsin in 1845 assisted in building the prison at Wau-
pun. He still conducts a grocery store at Fox Lake and is widely recognized
as one of the substantial and esteemed citizens of that place. His political al-
legiance is given to the democratic party, while his religious faith is that of the
Catholic church. To him and his wife were born the following children: Mrs.
Mary O'Connell, deceased; Lizzie, the wife of John Connor, of Chicago; J. D.,
of this review ; Sam I., living at Fox Lake ; William J., who is a resident of
Bellingham, Washington; and Rosetta, of Fox Lake.
J. D. Hillier attended the public schools of Fox Lake until fifteen years of
age and then learned the marble business, with which he has been identified
to the present time. He remained at Fox Lake until 1882 and in 1910 took over
the business of Turner, Miller & Blumcnthal at Beaver Dam, where he has since
conducted an independent establishment as a marble cutter and dealer in monu-
ments. His efforts in this connection have been rewarded with success and
the patronage accorded him is a tribute to his skill and ability in his chosen
field of endeavor.
In 1881 Mr. Hillier was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Casey, a daughter
of William and Rebecca Casey, of Fox Lake. The brothers and sisters of Mrs.
Hillier are as follows: Honora, whose demise occurred in New York; Ellen, liv-
ing in Beaver Dam ; Dan ; Rebecca, who makes her home at Cottage Grove, Ore-
gon; and John, who died in infancy. Our subject and his wife have two chil-
82
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
dren: Minnie, who was born in 1882 and is the wife of C. A. Boothroyd; and
Ira W., whose birth occurred in 1884.
The democratic party finds in Mr. Hillier a stalwart advocate and on its
ticket he was elected alderman on three different occasions. He belongs to the
Fraternal Insurance Union. A genial and ' kindly disposition has won him
many friends in the county where his entire life has been spent, and he has
the regard and esteem of all with whom his business or social relations have
brought him into contact.
EPHRAIM BROWN NORTON.
Ephraim Brown Norton came to this county almost two-thirds of a century
ago and experienced all the vicissitudes of pioneer life in establishing a home and
developing a farm. However, as the years passed he prospered, devoting his
attention to the pursuits of general farming and dairying with excellent results.
He is the owner of Evergreen Farm on section 25, Williamstown township, but
is now living retired, spending the evening of life in well earned ease. His birth
occurred near Warren, Ohio, in Bloomfield township, TrumbuW county, on the
14th of July, 1826, his parents being George and Barbara (Baughman) Norton,
both of whom were natives of Shenandoah county, Virginia. The father was
born on the 31st of October, 1791, while the mother's natal day was July 10,
1795. Jacob Norton, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was a native of
Alsace, France, and came to America prior to the Revolutionary war, fighting
under Washington during that conflict. Prior to the outbreak of the War of
1812 he removed to Trumbull county, Ohio, in company with his son, George
Norton, who fought in an Ohio regiment in the second war with England. Jacob
Norton passed away in Trumbull county about 1833. In that year George Nor-
ton, the father of Ephraim B. Norton, removed to Bartholomew county, Indiana,
and there maintained his residence until 1848, when he came to Wisconsin, here
passing away on March 25, 1866. His wife was called to her final rest in the
following year, on April 5, 1867. Unto them were born twelve children, six
of whom grew to maturity, namely: George, Jr., whose demise occurred at
Eugene, Oregon ; Ephraim Brown, of this review ; Clarissa, who died at the age
of eighteen years; Sylvester, who is a resident of Elmore, Minnesota; William
W.. who passed away at Oakesdale, Washington; and Joel B., who was killed
as a soldier at Spanish Fort, Alabama.
Ephraim B. Norton obtained his education in the public schools and was
reared to manhood on his father's farm. In 1848, when twenty-two years of
age, he came to this county with his father and started out as an agriculturist
on his own account. His brother had located here the previous year and had
purchased government land for himself and other members of the family. E. B.
Norton first took up his abode on section 36, Williamstown township, but about
1851 removed to section 25, where he has remained continuously since. He
experienced all the hardships and privations of pioneer life and his first home
was a log house of his own construction. In 1864 this was replaced by a
colonial brick house, which he has since kept in excellent repair. It is surrounded
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
85
by fine evergreen trees, and the place is known as Evergreen Farm. Through-
out his active career Mr. Norton was busily engaged in farming and dairying,
but he is now living retired and leaves the care of his property to his son.
In 1850 Mr. Norton was united in marriage to Miss Anna Elizabeth Schmidt,
who was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, on the 6th of November, 1829,
her parents being George and Anna E. (Thraum) Schmidt. Her father, like-
wise a native of Hesse-Darmstadt, emigrated to the United States about 1848,
and settled on section 18, Hubbard township, Dodge county, Wisconsin. He
died there the same year and his wife passed away a week later. They had
three children, of whom Mrs. Norton was the youngest. Unto our subject and
his wife were born four children, as follows: Albert, who died in infancy;
Adaline, the wife of Julius Lehman, of Theresa township; Clara, at home: and
George, who wedded Miss Caroline Hirth and resides on the home farm. The
wife and mother was called to her final rest on the 9th of October, 1908.
Politically Mr. Norton is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen,
recognizing his worth and ability, have called htm to several positions of public
trust. He has served in the capacity of school clerk and township assessor and
has also acted as township supervisor for several terms. In religious faith he
is a Universalist but attends the services of different churches. He has now
passed the eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey and can look back with pride
upon an active, honorable and useful career.
JUDGE CHRISTIAN ANDREW CHRISTIANSEN.
Christian Andrew Christiansen, a practitioner at the Dodge county bar whose
ability is evidenced in the fact that his fellow townsmen called him to serve
upon the county bench and whose success is further manifest in the liberal
and distinctively representative clientage accorded him, is a native of Denmark,
having been born in Schleswig-Holstein, that section of the Danish kingdom
which now belongs to Germany. His natal town was Flensburg and the date
January 15, 1848. His parents were John Casper and Antonia Christiansen,
who provided their son with liberal educational privileges. He pursued his
studies in the schools of his native city and after attending both the Flensburg
and Odense Colleges, entered the University of Copenhagen in 1866. There he
pursued a six years' course and was graduated in 1872. Three years later he
was admitted to the bar in that city and practiced his profession there continu-
ously until 1884.
Ere leaving his native land Judge Christiansen was married on the nth of
May, 1877, to Miss Wilhelmina Gertrude Gjcndrup, a daughter of Frederick
William Gjendrup and a native of Copenhagen. Two children were born unto
them, Winnie M. and Johanna M., the former born June 21, 1878, and the
latter on the 4th of May, 1880.
With their little family Judge Christiansen and his wife sailed for the new
world in January, 1884. They landed at New York and thence made their
way westward to Wisconsin, arriving in this state on the 1st of March. Tak-
ing up their abode in Juneau, Mr. Christiansen was admitted to the bar of Dodge
86
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
county in September of that year and has since been actively engaged in the
practice of his profession here. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his abil-
ity, soon called him to public office and in 1887 and 1888 he filled the position of
deputy county clerk. In 1889 he was made city clerk of Juneau and continued
in that office for three years, his record as a city official being most creditable.
In 1893 he was called to the bench and served thereon continuously from 1804
until 1898, his judicial record being, in harmony with his record as a man and
lawyer, characterized by the utmost fidelity to duty and a masterful grasp of
the problems presented for solution. He has held other offices, having been
enrolling clerk of the Wisconsin senate in 1889 and a member of the com-
mission on public works for five years. His public duties have ever been dis-
charged with a sense of conscientious obligation. In politics he is a stalwart
republican, giving to the party unfaltering support since becoming a natural-
ized American citizen. The twenty-eight years of his residence in Juneau
have made him widely known and brought him a large circle of warm friends,
for his life has ever been upright and honorable and his native talents and
acquired ability have been directed along lines that have made his life activi-
ties a serviceable factor in the world's work.
John W. Pluck is passenger engineer on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St.
Paul Railroad and has held this position for twenty-five years. His long ser-
vice has been faithful and intelligent and has won him the confidence and
esteem of his employers, who recognize in him the rare quality of reliability
and value his energy, resourcefulness and efficiency. He was born in Horicon,
June 22, i860, a son of Miles and Jane (Reilly) Pluck, natives of County Wick-
low, Ireland. The father came to Wisconsin in 1852 and settled in Horicon
in the spring of 1856. For some time he worked at the blacksmith's trade but
later engaged in railroad work, in which he continued until his retirement in
1893. He died in 1897, having survived his wife since 1885. He was prominent
and active in local affairs and in the early days of Horicon served as trustee
of the village. He and his wife had six children: Timothy, deceased, who was
a passenger conductor on the St. Paul railroad; Mary, the widow of James
Garvin, of Horicon; John W., of this review; Thomas, who served four years
as register of deeds and who is now in the restaurant business in Horicon;
Milo, who is engaged in the same line of occupation in the railroad station at
Horicon; and Catherine, the wife of James McManus, an engineer residing
in Horicon.
John W. Pluck was educated in the public schools of his native section and
followed the usual course of studies until he was sixteen years of age, when
he began working as a fireman on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad,
continuing in this position for five years. On May 9, 1882, he was made en-
gineer and given a freight run from Portage to Milwaukee. He was later
transferred to the line from Milwaukee to Winncconne and on April 4. 1887.
was again transferred to the passenger department and given the territory be-
JOHN W. PLUCK.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
87
tween Horicon and Portage. For twenty-five years he has held this position
and has discharged his duties always capably and efficiently. In 189s he pur-
chased a farm which is now within the city limits and upon this he opened a
brickyard, which he operated until 1908, when he disposed of his entire hold-
ings and at the present time gives his attention to his engineering duties, although
he has a large tract of land in North Dakota, the revenue of which materially
adds to his income.
On February 19, 1889, Mr. Pluck was united in marriage to Miss Alice
Condie, a daughter of Andrew and Hannah Condie, the former of whom was
prominent in the lumber business until his retirement. He now makes his home
with the subject of this review. His wife has passed away. Mr. and Mrs.
Pluck have a son, Thomas, who was born November 27, 1889. He is a gradu-
ate of the pharmaceutical department of Marquette University at Milwaukee,
receiving his degree in 1912, and is now engaged in the drug business in Hori-
con. The family reside in one of the most pleasant homes in Horicon and
Mr. Pluck has won many friends during his long period of residence here,
who honor and respect him for his upright and straightforward life.
Mr. Pluck, always public-spirited and marching in the front rank with
those far-sighted citizens to whose heart is dearest and nearest the progress
and improvement of their home city and the welfare of its people, has played no
mean part in the official life of the municipality. In 1897, when Horicon was
incorporated as a city under the state law, his fellow citizens gave due recog-
nition of their appreciation of him and his efforts by honoring him with election
to the mayor's chair, the highest office in their gift, and Mr. Pluck became the
first mayor of Horicon. That he fulfilled the duties and demands of this im-
portant office to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, to the betterment of
the city, the general improvement of conditions, that his rule was wise and ef-
fective — there is no more conclusive proof needed than the fact that he was
continued in the chair for six years by reelection. During this time was in-
augurated a new era of development and prosperity in the young-born city
and Mayor Pluck's work in connection therewith was of an important and last-
ing character, his administration — a benefit to the community— an honor to him-
self.
FRANK JOSEPH MIRLACH.
Frank J. Mirlach is a native son of Beaver Dam, prominent in business, fra-
ternal and political circles of his community and, in the able conduct of his
many enterprises, is an important factor in its citizenship. He has spent his
entire life in the city where his birth occurred December 4. 1872. He is a son
of Andrew F. and Frances H. (Haertl) Mirlach, natives of Germany. His
father came to America in 1854 with his parents and was married in Beaver
Dam, his wife having come to the United States in 1853. He learned the jew-
elry trade after coming to this country and upon his arrival in Wisconsin formed
a partnership with his brother Joseph F., in establishing an enterprise along
this line. In this business which they are now conducting they achieved sue-
88
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cess from the beginning. Andrew F. Mirlach is now in his sixty-eighth year.
His wife passed away when she was fifty- four years of age.
Frank J. Mirlach is the second in a family of six children. He was educated
in the parochial schools of Beaver Dam, laying aside his books at the age of
thirteen, in order to accept a position as a driver, of a delivery wagon for a local
grocery. His wages were seventy-two dollars a year and he worked the entire
twelve months before he drew any money. When he abandoned this line of
occupation he worked upon a farm for a short time and then clerked in a
grocery store for a year and a half. At the end of that time he started to learn
the jewelry business under the supervision of his father, completing his ap-
prenticeship in a short time. In 1901 he added to his activities by accepting the
office of city clerk, to which position he was reelected for six successive terms.
On January 1, 1907, he definitely abandoned business life in order to devote
himself exclusively to politics. He was elected to the office of register of
deeds and did able and effective work for four years. When his term expired
he established himself in the real-estate business, in which he had previously
become interested and he is now dividing his time between this occupation, the
management of his private interests and his duties as mayor of Beaver Dam.
To this latter office he was elected by the city council to fill a vacancy and in
the spring of 191 2 was reelected by a very large majority. In order to accept
he was obliged to resign his position as chairman of the police and fire com-
mission.
Mr. Mirlach is one of the prominent and successful men of Beaver Dam
and has a firm faith in the future of the city. He owns one hundred and fifty-
eight acres of fine farm land in the vicinity, fourteen houses within the city
limits and forty lots scattered throughout the city. He is a stockholder in the
old national bank. He makes his home with his father, his brother Eugene
and his sister Fannie and with them attends St. Peter's Catholic church of
Beaver Dam. He is interested in religious affairs and is a member of the So-
ciety of St. Peter. He also belongs to the Eagles, the Beavers and the Ben
Hur society. He is a man of varied interests, loyal, public-spirited and thor-
oughly capable. His political and commercial success have a common cause in
his high and upright standards and his unquestioned integrity. He is a shrewd
and able business man with a comprehensive grasp of modern conditions and
of the economical phases which influence them while his political success has
been determined by the same qualities of honesty and good faith which had aided
and hastened his commercial prosperity.
Frederick William Gcbhardt has long been identified with the Citizens Bank
of Juneau, in which for sixteen years he has held the position of assistant
cashier. Of German extraction, he is a native of this state, his birth having oc-
curred in Hustisford on the 25th of November, 1871. lie is a son of Frederick
William and, Maria (Richter) Gebhardt, who were born, reared and married in
Zellin. Germany. Together with their two eldest children they emigrated to
FREDERICK WILLIAM GEBHARDT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
89
the United States in June, 1871, coming direct to Hustisford, this county. The
father, who was a shipbuilder in the old country, here followed the carpenter's
trade until about 1896, when he opened a furniture store which he is still con-
ducting. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Gebhardt numbered seven, our sub-
ject being the third in order of birth.
Although he was born and reared in a home of moderate circumstances,
Frederick William Gebhardt was given the advantages of a practical education.
He began his schooling in Hustisford, following which he attended the high
school at Horicon, subsequently pursuing a commercial course in a business
college at Rockford, Illinois. From the age of thirteen years during vacations he
worked at the carpenter's trade with his father, but he never followed this oc-
cupation regularly. Upon leaving school he taught during the winter months
for four years and subsequently identified himself with the furniture business.
Two years later he severed his connection with mercantile activities, however,
and became connected with the Citizens Bank of Juneau. He began in the ca-
pacity of bookkeeper but in 1896 he was made assistant cashier and has ever
since held this position. He is a stockholder in this bank, which is one of the
firmly established and stable financial institutions of the county, as well as
one of the most conservative.
In Hustisford, on the 5th of November, 1900, Mr. Gebhardt was married
to Miss Ida Fiedler, a native of that town and a daughter of Ernest and Anna
(Haertel) Fiedler. The parents came direct to Hustisford from Germany, in
which country they were born and reared. The father, who was a mason, here
followed his trade until he died. The mother is still living and now makes her
home with Mrs. Gebhardt, who is her only child. To Mr. and Mrs. Gebhardt
there have been born two children : Hertha, whose birth occurred on the 24th of
November, 1901 ; and Anna, whose natal day was the 14th of May, 1903.
The parents manifest their religious faith through their connection with
the Reformed Lutheran church, and fraternally Mr. Gebhardt has attained the
rank of a Knight Templar in the Masonic order. He belongs to the blue lodge of
Juneau, the chapter of Horicon and the commandery at Beaver Dam. He is
also a member of the local camp of the Modern Woodmen of America. His
political indorsement he accords to the democratic party, and is now serving
as city treasurer. He is likewise treasurer of the Automatic Carrier Com-
pany, and is a stockholder in this enterprise. Mr. Gebhardt is one of the
popular employes of the Citizens Bank as he is gracious and affable and extends
to their patrons every accommodation compatible with the policy of the institution.
WILLIAM VOLKMANN.
William Volkmann, who is creditably and efficiently discharging the duties
of sheriff, is one of Dodge county's native sons, his birth having occurred in
Herman township on the 27th of March, 1865. His father, William Volkmann,
was born in Germany on the 9th of August, 1838, but he spent the most of his life
in America, having come to this country with his parents when a child of eight
90
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
years. The family located in Watertown, this state, and there he grew to man-
hood and was subsequently married to Miss Albertine Gentz. She is likewise
a native of Germany, her birth having occurred on the 25th of March, 1841.
Her parents emigrated to the United States when she was ten years of age and
she has ever since resided in Wisconsin. Soon after their marriage Mr. and
Mrs. Volkmann moved to Herman township, going from there to Hubbard
township two years later. There they continued to reside the father still de-
voting his energies to agricultural pursuits. German thrift and energy re-
sulted in prosperity and he acquired extensive property interests. Recently
he has sold three hundred and twenty acres of his holdings to the Northwestern
Iron Company for three hundred dollars per acre, thus realizing a handsome
profit on the investment in addition to the competence he has acquired from the
cultivation of his fields during the intervening years. Our subject is the eld-
est of the five children born to his parents, the others, in order of birth, being as
follows: August D., who is engaged in the furniture business at Iron Ridge;
Edward B., who is in the real-estate business at Watertow nj Al bert, who is
farming in Herman township, this county; and Albertine, the wife of George
Hennig, a fanner of Herman township. The parents are members of the
Lutheran church and have reared their family in the faith of that denomination.
In common with the history of the majority of the pioneers that of the Volk-
mann family is one of toil and achievement, parents and children uniting their
energies toward the attainment of a single purpose — the acquirement of a home.
Under such circumstances the early advantages of the children were neces-
sarily limited. They attended the district schools, however, until they had mas-
tered the common branches while at home they were trained in habits of thrift
and industry, which enabled them to develop into self-reliant men and women
and useful members of society. William Volkmann's youth was not unlike
that of the other lads with whom he was reared. He early became familiar
with the duties and requirements of the agriculturist, assisting his father with
the cultivation of the home place until his twenty-fourth year. He was then
married and removed to Beaver Dam township, where he engaged in general
farming for seventeen years. His efforts were energetically directed along
well defined lines with the persistence that invariably brings success. There
were the usual obstacles and discouragements encountered by every man, but
instead of bringing defeat they developed within him the hardihood and re-
source that only served to strengthen his determination. Such characters in-
variably succeed and now he holds the title to two hundred and sixty-one acres
of productive land, adjacent to the city of Beaver Dam. As his circumstances
permitted he added to its value by the erection of substantial buildings and the
introduction of many modern improvements, including an equipment compris-
ing everything required by the modern agriculturist. Upon leaving the farm
he engaged in the hotel business in Beaver Dam for four years, at the expira-
tion of which time he assumed the duties of his present office.
On the 18th of May, 1888, Mr. Volkmann was married to Miss Lydia Hen-
nig, who was born in Herman township, this county, on May 6, 1869. She is
a daughter of Henry and Katherine Hennig, natives of Germany, who came
to Dodge county during the pioneer period and were among the first settlers
of Herman township. There the father passed away but the mother was living
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
91
in Chester township at the time of her death. Mrs. Volkmann, who is the
youngest in a family of six children, has become the mother of two sons : Ed-
win E., who was born on the 28th of March, 1889, employed in a large mercan-
tile establishment of Milwaukee; and Arthur A., whose birth occurred on the
3d of May, 1893. He is turnkey in the Dodge county jail.
The family are members of the Lutheran church. Politically Mr. Volk-
mann is a democrat and has taken an active interest in local affairs of a gov-
ernmental nature from the time he was granted the right of franchise. While
living on the farm he held some of the minor offices, and after removing to
Beaver Dam he was trustee of the insane asylum and he was also chairman
of the township of which he was likewise treasurer for five years. During the
two years of his present incumbency he has discharged his duties in a com-
mendable manner, thus fulfilling the expectations of his constituency and prov-
ing the wisdom of their selection.
FRANK F. CONGDON.
Frank F. Congdon needs no introduction to the readers of the history of
Dodge county, for he is widely known as the manager of the Woolen Manufac-
turing Company, owning and controlling one of the most important and ex-
tensive business enterprises of the city — an undertaking which is winning for
Beaver Dam its reputation as a great manufacturing center. He was born in
Wautoma, Wisconsin, in i860, a son of George B. and Celia F. (Flanders)
Congdon. The father came to Wisconsin in 1847 with George H. Stewart and
grew up with him. Mr. Stewart was the owner of a woolen mill which was even-
tually purchased by George B. Congdon and G. W. Chandler. From that time
forward until his death the father was actively connected with the business of
which his son is now manager and made his home in Beaver Dam until called
to his final rest in January, 1907. His widow still survives, as do their two sons,
Frank F. and George C, the latter a resident of Milwaukee.
The former had a public-school education and then went into the mill with
his father. The Woolen Manufacturing Company was established in 1853 by
George H. Stewart and in 1865 was sold to G. W. Chandler and G. B. Congdon,
who conducted the enterprise under the name of the Chandler-Congdon Com-
pany until 1882, when the business was incorporated as the Woolen Manufac-
turing Company. In 1892 the Beaver Dam Worsted Company rented the plant
and occupied it until 1902, in which latter year the former business was reorgan-
ized, becoming the property of its present owners. The officers of the com-
pany are: M. A. Jacobs, president; T. D. Lawrence, vice president; J. W. Mil-
ler, secretary; Peter Buele, treasurer; and Frank Congdon, manager. The
company manufactures cassimeres used for men's clothes and their goods are
sold in all the large clothing centers, being sent to most of the more important
cities throughout the country. The cloth manufactured is all of high grade and
the mill has a capacity of one thousand yards per day, employing eighty people
in the operation of the plant. The factory is equipped with both steam and
water power and has a private track from the main line of the railroad. This is
92
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the largest mill of its kind in the state and is the only one in Dodge county
that is now in operation. The building occupied is forty-five by one hundred
and fifty feet, is three stories in height with basement and has a large ell, thirty
feet square, of the same height. The building is splendidly equipped with mod-
ern machinery and in its manufactured goods the company meets the demands
of critical taste in style, workmanship and quality. Entering the business in a
minor capacity, Frank F. Congdon acquainted himself with various depart-
ments of the trade and thereby became well qualified to assume the responsi-
ble duties of manager, in which position he is now serving.
In May, 1881, Mr. Congdon was married to Miss Alice G. Hambright
and unto them have been born two children, Edith and Clarence S. Mr. Cong-
don is prominent in Masonry, having attained the Knight Templar degree of
the York Rite and the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. In fact he has
gone through all departments of Masonry save the thirty-third degree and for
three years he was master of the lodge at Beaver Dam. His political allegiance
is given to the republican party and in matters of citizenship he stands for re-
form, progress and improvement, but the demands of his business leave him
no time for active work along political lines. He concentrates his efforts upon
the control of the important manufacturing interests under his care and has
made for himself an enviable place and name in business circles.
While now living retired Thomas L. Newton was long a prominent figure
in the business circles of Beaver Dam. He has passed the eighty-fifth milestone
on life's journey and his rest is well deserved, being the fitting reward of years
of earnest, persistent and honorable effort. His labors have at various times
and in many ways contributed to the progress and upbuilding of the state and
in matters relating to the public welfare Mr. Newton's position has never been
an equivocal one. He has always stood firmly in support of what he has be-
lieved to be for the best interests of the commonwealth at large and his labors
have been far-reaching and effective.
Mr. Newton was born in Templeton, Worcester county, Massachusetts, July
27, 1827, his parents being Amos and Lydia (Larnard) Newton. The family
is of English origin and was established in America in the colonial epoch of
our country's history. The father followed the occupation of farming in New
England and there Thomas L. Newton was reared, continuing his residence in
the east until August, 1856, when, attracted by the business opportunities of the
growing west, he came to Beaver Dam. Here he became a clerk in the grocery
store of A. P. Lawrence, with whom he remained for a year, and subsequently
he opened a store in connection with Horace G. Damon, with whom he continued
for two or three years. On the expiration of that period he purchased
his partner's interest and engaged independently in the grocery business
until i860, when he admitted Andrew Willard to a partnership. This rela-
tion was maintained until 1865, when Mr. Newton sold out to Mr. Willard
and turned his attention to general merchandising. In that line of business he
THOMAS L. NEWTON.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
95
continued until 1900, or for a period of forty-five years, when he sold out to
clerks who had been with him from five to twenty years, giving them the oppor-
tunity to pay as they could. The business was then incorporated, Mr. Newton
taking stock as collateral for notes. He figured prominently as a merchant
of Beaver Dam, his. progressive business methods being such as would bear the
closest investigation and scrutiny and measured up to high standards of com-
mercial ethics. Aside from merchandising he has been well known, becoming
vice president of the old National Bank and at different times owning as high
as four farms in this part of the state. He has been deeply interested in the
subject of raising fine stock, making a specialty of Percheron horses and Short-
horn cattle, and has won many prizes thereon. He has been the only breeder in
the county to sell a carload of registered Percheron horses at a time, having in
1904 disposed of that number to A. P. Nave, of Attica, Indiana. Mr. Newton
has been very prominent in connection with both county and state affairs, realiz-
ing how great a stimulus they have been to the efforts and enterprise of the agri-
cultural class. For a year he served as the president of the State Agricultural
Society and for four years was its secretary.
In 1854 Mr. Newton was united in marriage to Miss Harriet A. Childs, of
New Hampshire, the wedding being celebrated in thewiast. They became the
parents of three children but two of the number passed away, the surviving
son being Theodore L., who is a merchant of Marshalltown, Iowa, and is mar-
ried and has three children. In 1907 Mr. Newton erected his present home,
which is a beautiful residence, richly and tastefully furnished. There he and
his wife are spending the evening of life, amid many comforts which have come
to them as the result of his industry and business ability. In politics he has long
been an earnest republican and upon the party ticket was elected to the office of
alderman. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons, being the oldest mem-
ber of the lodge at Beaver Dam, while with Portage Commandery, K. T., he
also holds membership. Wherever known he is held in high regard and most
of all where he is best known. The most envious cannot grudge him his suc-
cess, so industriously and honorably has it been won, and in reviewing his life
history of unfaltering activity and straightforward purpose and recognizing
how pleasantly he is now situated, one cannot but feel
"How blest is he who crowns in shades like these
A youth of labor with an age of ease."
SAMUEL C. ELSER.
Samuel C. Elser has for the past three years been engaged in the grocery
business at Beaver Dam, in partnership with George Elser, and has won success
in this connection. His birth occurred in Dodge county, Wisconsin, on the 30th
of April, 1865, his parents being George and Maggie (Elser) Elser. The fa-
ther, a native of Germany, crossed the Atlantic to the United States at an
early day, and took up his abode in Pennsylvania. In 1863 he came west, set-
tling in Dodge county, Wisconsin. He, was a carpenter by trade and also
»i n-n
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
followed general agricultural pursuits. His political allegiance was given to
the democracy, while his religious faith was that of the Lutheran church. His
demise, which occurred in 1904, was the occasion of deep and wide-spread re-
gret, for his life had been upright and honorable in all its relations. His widow,
who survives him, makes her home in Beaver Dam. Their children were as
follows: Christ; George; Samuel; Theodore; Charles; William; Lizzie, who is
the wife of John E. Miller; Mrs. Annie Miller; Mrs. Maggie Helbing, who
makes her home in Watertown, South Dakota ; and Mrs. Lena Vetter, of Bea-
ver Dam.
Samuel C. Elser attended the district schools until fifteen years of age and
after putting aside his text-books turned his attention to general agricultural
pursuits, being busily engaged in the work of the fields until about 1909. At
that time he purchased an interest in the grocery store of George Elser of
Beaver Dam, with whom he has since been associated in business. They carry
an extensive line of staple and fancy groceries and are accorded a liberal pat-
ronage. Mr. Elser is also a stockholder in the Beaver Dam Foundry Company
and the German National Bank.
Mr. Elser was united in marriage to Miss Amalia Vetter, a daughter of
August and Sophia Vetter. She was one of a family including: Oscar, de-
ceased; Robert; Mrs. Keller; Mrs. John Long; and Mrs. Frank Hinsky. Mrs.
Amalia Elser was called to her final rest in 1908. Mr. Elser is a democrat ?nd
during the year 191 1 served as supervisor from the seventh ward. He belongs
to the local lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is also a mem-
ber of the Lutheran Society. A well spent life has won him the favorable re-
gard of those with whom he has come into contact.
SIDNEY R. JONES.
The name of Sidney R. Jones has long been prominently connected with
the business interests of Juneau, where for sixteen years he has been president
of the Citizens Bank. He is a man of keen discernment and sagacity and has
assisted in the organization of various local enterprises, chief among these
being the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, of which he has been the presi-
dent since it was founded in 1875. He is of American ancestry and was born
in the vicinity of Troy, Rensselaer county, New York, on the 24th of Febru-
ary, 1836. His parents were Ira and Penelope (Green) Jones, also natives of
the Empire state, the father's birth having there occurred on the 31st of March,
1810, and that of the mother on August 29, 181 1. Ira Jones, who was a farmer,
came to Wisconsin with his family in 1843. They first resided in Watertown
but eighteen months later they came to Dodge county. Pioneer conditions pre-
vailed in this section of the state and they lived in a log cabin in very much
the same manner as other early settlers. The father acquired valuable real
estate and at the time of his death held the title to two hundred acres of ex-
cellent land. His latter years were passed in Hustisford. Nine children were
born to Mr. and Mrs. Jones, two of whom died in infancy. Those who lived to
attain maturity were as follows: Polly Ann, deceased; Sidney R., our subject;
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
97
Seneca B. ( who is a farmer in Hustisford township ; Samuel A., who is farming
in Oak Grove township: Flora, deceased; Florence, the wife of F. W. Greene,
who is living retired in Juneau; and Maggie L., the widow of William Slight,
of Juneau.
The first seven years in the life of Sidney R. Jones were passed in his na-
tive state and there he began his education. He continued his studies in the
schools of Watertown and Hustisford, but in common with the majority of
the pioneer youths his early opportunities were limited. The lack of educa-
tional advantages is never a hindrance to the progress of an ambitious man,
however, as he invariably finds ihe means of overcoming his deficiencies and
at the same time develops those qualities, which pave the way to success and
mark him as a leader in his community. Having been reared on a farm he was
early trained to agricultural pursuits, assisting with the cultivation of the home
place until he was twenty-four years of age. Later he purchased a hundred and
twenty acres of land in Hustisford, which he still owns and began farming on
his own account. He resided on his farm until 1903 and during that period
extended its boundaries to two hundred acres and added to its improvements
until it is one of the most valuable properties in the township. Since with-
drawing from agricultural pursuits, Mr. Jones has made his home in Juneau,
devoting his entire attention to his interests here.
On the 21st of March, i860, Mr. Jones was married to Miss Anna Baker,
who was born in England on the 9th of July, 1839, ^ is a daughter of Thomas
and Eliza Baker. The mother died in the old country, but in 1854 the father
came to America with his family and located on a farm in Lebanon township,
in the cultivation of which he engaged until his death. To Mr. and Mrs. Jones
there has been born one child, Cora, the wife of Ernest E. Randall, a farmer,
who is living retired in Hustisford. Mr. Jones votes the republican ticket,
but the extent of his personal interests has made it impossible for him to figure
in local political activities, although he has served as assessor. He is not remiss
in matters of citizenship, however, but on the contrary cooperates in forward-
ing the welfare of the community and in promoting the development of its
various public utilities.
ALBRECHT W. SCHOENWETTER, D.D. S.
One of the most enterprising and progressive dentists of Beaver Dam is
Dr. A. W. Schoenwetter who has been practicing his profession in this city
since 1910. His active career has been short but his expert and specialized
knowledge have combined with personal ability to make his rise rapid and his
prosperity sure. Dr. Schoenwetter is a native son of Wisconsin, his birth hav-
ing occurred at Lowell, in August, 1889. His parents were Albert and Pauline
(Bartell) Schoenwetter, the former a native of Lowell, Wisconsin, and the
latter of Germany. Albert Schoenwetter followed agriculture for many years
and was prominent in public life. He served as chairman of the town board for
six years and for a long time did able and efficient work as trustee of the in-
sane asylum. He is now president of the Lowell Canning Company and is one
98
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of the representative and prominent citizens of that city. He and his -wife were
the parents of seven children : Gerhart, of Lowell, Wisconsin, who married Miss
Bertha Buske, by whom he has three children, Harvey, Oscar and Bernice;
Olga, who also resides in Lowell; Albrecht, the subject of this sketch; and
Arthur, Paul, Emma and Bernice, all of whom live in Lowell.
Dr. Schoenwetter was reared at home and educated in the public schools of
his native city. He attended Valparaiso University at Valparaiso, Indiana, and
was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1907. He early deter-
mined to make the practice of dentistry his life work and in order to fit him-
self for this line of occupation enrolled in the Chicago College of Dental Sur-
gery, graduating with the class of 1910 and obtaining in that year his degree
of D. D. S. He immediately located for practice in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin,
and has been in this city since that time. His practice has constantly increased
as his methods and efficient equipment became better known.
On July 12, 1910, Dr. Schoenwetter was united in marriage to Miss Leon a
Raymond, a daughter of Lewis Raymond, of Valparaiso, Indiana. Mrs. Scho-
enwetter was born December 6, 1891, and is one of six children born to her
parents, the others being: Malda; Ida, who is a graduate of Valparaiso uni-
versity from the department of instrumental music; Laura, who studied voice
culture in Valparaiso University; Duffy, who graduated from the law depart-
ment of the same institution and received a degree of Bachelor of Science, tak-
ing also a complete commercial course with special studies in elocution; and
Dr. Schoenwetter is a democrat, taking an intelligent interest in public af-
fairs not, however, participating actively in politics beyond casting his ballot.
He is a membtr of the German Reformed church. The profession of dentistry
requires a steady and dexterous hand, a concentrated mind and a skill which
is mechanical and technical as well as scientific. All these elements of success
Dr. Sciioeu wetter possesses in a large measure, and upon them he has based
his prosperity. He is still a young man but his attainments prophesy well for
his future professional career.
Courtney Starkweather owns a fine farm of two hundred acres of land
directly across the river from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and is active and suc-
cessful as an agriculturist. During his life he has been prominently connected
with business expansion in the city and still maintains his identification with
some important local enterprises. He was born in Alabama, Genesee county,
New York, on April 18, 1843, an d ' s a son °f Martin and Mary Jane (Batch-
elder) Starkweather. His grandfather, Amos Starkweather was also a native
of New York, having been born in Chautauqua. He married Miss Betsey Bul-
lock a native of New York, who died in Oneida county, October 10, 1877. They
were the parents of ten children: Phoebe, born June 6, 1793; David; Benjamin;
Nelson; Betsey; Riley; Almira; Florilla; Martin, the father of our subject;
and Schulyer.
Mabel.
COURTNEY STARKWEATHER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
99
Martin Starkweather was born in Worcester, New York, on June i, 1812,
and came to Wisconsin at an early date. He died in Columbus in this state
about the year 1890. His wife in her maidenhood was Miss Mary Jane Batch-
elder. Their marriage occurred in 1840 in Alabama, New York, and they be-
came the parents of the following children: Asher, who died during the Civil
war; Courtney, the subject of this review; and Minnie.
Courtney Starkweather came to Wisconsin when he was ten years of age
and located in Columbia county, where he remained for twenty years. He re-
ceived part of his education in the public schools of that district and learned
the carpenter's trade. He laid aside his books at the age of twenty and worked
at different occupations for four years in his fathers shop. He married in
1871 and some time after went to Fall River, where he followed the wagon,
blacksmithing and harness business for eighteen months, finally locating in
Beaver Dam in April, 1874. In this city he established himself in partnership
with Mr. Cleveland in the lumber business, operating under the name of Stark-
weather & Cleveland. He eventually purchased his partner's interest and ran
the concern with remarkable success until 1900. In that year he abandoned
active connection with it and it has since been managed by his son. In De-
cember, 1909, the lumber enterprise was incorporated with a capital of fifty
thousand dollars under the name of C. Starkweather & Son. The firm does a
general lumber business and deals in coal and building materials. It is one of
the largest enterprises of its kind in Dodge county and its dominating fac-
tor, Mr. Starkweather, is accounted among the progressive forces in industrial
development. Mr. Starkweather is the owner of two hundred acres of land
directly across the lake from Beaver Dam and is giving his attention to its de-
velopment along modern lines. He has equipped his farm with the most im-
proved devices in labor-saving machinery and takes a pride in making his one
of the model properties in this section of the country. He has, however, not
abandoned his identification with business advancements in the city. He is a
stockholder in the Beaver Dam Iron Works and is a director in the Farmers
State Bank. There is hardly any phase of business activity with which his name
is not prominently connected and no movement looking toward further progress
ever seeks his cooperation in vain.
Mr. Starkweather was married on November 15, 1871, to Miss Adelaide A.
Eggleston whose birth occurred in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on November 7,
1845. Mrs. Starkweather is a daughter of Thomas G. and Deborah H. (Aus-
tin) Eggleston, the former a native of England and the latter of Utica, New
York. They settled in Wisconsin at an early date locating first in Milwaukee
and later in Waukesha, finally removing to Fox Lake where they both died,
the father in 1892, when he was eighty-two years of age, and the mother in
1894, when she had reached the age of eighty-four years. Mrs. Starkweather is
one of six children born to her parents: Charles H., who is living in Fox Lake
and is seventy-six years old; Georgiana M., who died June 3, 1883, when she
was forty-four years of age; Ellen F.. born in 1840, who is now Mrs. Smith of
Reedsburg; Frances A., born in 1843, who is now Mrs. Price, of St. James,
Minnesota; Adelaide A., the wife of our subject; and Harriett M., who was born
in 1847, and who died in Chicago when she was fifty-one years of age. To
Mr. and Mrs. Starkweather have been born two children. The eldest is Charles
100
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
A., whose birth occurred on November 26, 1877. He married on June 24,
1901, Miss Cora B. Winn, of West Chesterfield, New Hampshire. Mrs.
Charles Starkweather is one of five children born to her parents. The others
are : Charles, of Holyoke, Massachusetts ; Carrie, now Mrs. Chickering, of West
Chesterfield, New Hampshire; Grace, who became the wife of H. Chickering
of the same city; and Samuel, who also resides in New Hampshire. They
are the parents of two children : Evelyn Grace, born March 10, 1903 ; and Court-
ney Winn, born March 10, 1908. Charles Starkweather was educated in the
public schools of Beaver Dam and later attended the Wayland Academy from
which institution he was graduated in 1898. He supplemented this by a business
course in the Spencerian Business College, of Milwaukee, graduating in 1899.
He is now prominent in business circles of Beaver Dam and is following in
his father's footsteps as a constructively energetic factor in commercial up-
building. He is identified with some of the most important concerns in the
city and as secretary and treasurer of the Beaver Dam Foundry Company has
influenced the success of that institution. The other child born to Mr. and Mrs.
Starkweather is Bessie, whose birth occurred on August 17, 1883. She was
educated in the public schools of Beaver Dam, and is a graduate of Wayland
Academy. She later attended Downer College, of Milwaukee, and finished her
education by an extended tour in Europe.
In his political affiliations Mr. Starkweather is consistently republican and
intelligently interested in public questions. He is affiliated with the Independ-
ent Order of Odd Fellows and belongs to the Baptist church. His farm to
which he is now giving most of his attention is carried on along the same lines
of progress and expansion which have always marked his business career. It
is a model and up-to-date property in every respect and has been a contributing
factor in agricultural development.
Frank G. Bartelt, the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and sixty
acres on section 23, Oak Grove township, devotes his attention to dairying and
in this connection has won a gratifying measure of success. His birth occurred
in Hubbard township, Dodge county, on the 23d of March, 1878, his parents
being August and Augusta (Kraus) Bartelt, both of whom were natives of Ger-
many. The father, who became an early settler of this county, here worked as a
farm hand for a time and afterward cultivated rented land. Subsequently he
purchased a farm in Hubbard township and there spent the remainder of his
life passing away about 1908. His widow still survives and now makes her
home with our subject in Oak Grove township.
Frank G. Bartelt, who was the third in order of birth in a family of four
children, obtained his education in the district schools of Oak Grove township.
When a youth of sixteen he left the parental roof and during the following
six years worked as a farm hand. Subsequently he operated a rented farm in
Oak Grove township for five years and on the expiration of that period pur-
chased a tract of one hundred and sixty acres a mile east of Juneau, whereupon
FRANK G. BARTELT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
101
he has resided to the present time. He has erected a barn, one hundred by
forty feet, an east wing, sixty by twenty-two feet, and a silo, eighteen by thirty-
four feet. The farm is well improved in every particular and is devoted to
the dairy business, its owner keeping on an average of fifty head of stock, about
half of which are pure bred Holsteins. He is a member of the Holstein Friesian
Association of America and in his undertakings as a dairyman has won pros-
perity, being now numbered among the substantial and representative citizens
of his native county.
On the 17th of February, 1900, Mr. Bartelt was united in marriage to
Miss Emma Steffen, who was born in Hustisford, this county, on the 7th of
October, 1877, her parents being Mr. and Mrs. William Steffen, natives of
Germany. They became early settlers of Hustisford township, and Mr. Steffen
is an extensive landowner of this county, being still actively engaged in general
agricultural pursuits. His wife passed away many years ago.
Mr. Bartelt is an idependent republican in politics, supporting the ticket
where national issues are involved but not considering himself bound by party
ties at local elections. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, belonging to the
church of that denomination at Juneau. In the county where they have spent
their entire lives both Mr. and Mrs. Bartelt enjoy the esteem of an extensive
circle of friends and acquaintances, having at all times displayed those sterling
traits of character which in every land and clime command confidence and
regard.
EDWIN J. HARTER.
Edwin J. Harter, a well known and substantial agriculturist of Oak Grove
township, is the owner of an excellent farm of sixty acres on section 14. His
birth occurred in Hartford township, Washington county, Wisconsin, on the
10th of May, 1872, his parents being David M. and Amanda (Nelson) Harter.
The father was born at Kirkville, New York, on the nth of April, 1842, while
the mother's birth occurred at Rubicon, Dodge county, Wisconsin, on the
nth of September, 1849. David M. Harter was but eighteen months old when
taken to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by his parents, who later removed to Herman
township, this county, and here he grew to manhood. In 1864 he enlisted in
the Union army, serving in the Fourteenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and
later was transferred to the Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry as a
private. After being mustered out he returned home and in 1867 removed
with his parents to Hartford, Washington county, this state, where he became
a landowner and where he still resides. He successfully followed general ag-
ricultural pursuits throughout his entire business career and is now living re-
tired.
Edwin J. Harter supplemented his early education by a course of study in
the high school at Hartford and later continued his studies in the State Normal
School at Oshkosh, from which institution he was graduated with the class of
1896. At the age of nineteen he began teaching in Rubicon township, this
county, following that profession during the winter months for twelve years
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
and being engaged in farming during the summer seasons. Subsequently he
purchased a farm of sixty acres in Oak Grove township, where he has since de-
voted his attention to general agricultural pursuits, his property being now well
improved and productive. He is preparing to specialize in pure bred Holstein
cattle, etc. In connection with his farming interests he acts as president of the
Juneau Butter & Cheese Company and he is likewise identified with the Ameri-
can Society of Equity, now serving as secretary of Enterprise Local Union.
On the 25th of August, 1897, Mr. Harter was united in marriage to Miss
Minnie A. White, who was born in Hartford, Washington county, Wisconsin,
on the 9th of July, 1869, her parents being William W. and Emily (Shepherd)
White. The father's birth occurred in Herman township, this county, in 1835,
while the mother was born in Hartford township, Washington county, about
1845. William W. White has been engaged in farming throughout his active
business career but in early manhood traveled about to some extent, going
to California during the gold excitement and to other places in search of op-
portunities. Eventually he took up his abode near Elkhorn, Wisconsin, where
he has resided continuously since, now living in honorable retirement. His
wife passed away in the thirty-third year of her age. Unto our subject and his
wife was born one child, who died in infancy. They have an adopted son,
Howard Victor, whose natal day was March 9, 1909.
In politics Mr. Harter is a republican but his aspirations have not been in
the line of office holding. His religious faith is indicated by his membership
in the Methodist Episcopal church at Juneau. A man of upright principles
and progressive spirit, he occupies an enviable place in the respect of his fel-
lowmen by reason of his loyal citizenship and his genuine personal worth.
AUGUST F. WOOCK.
August F. Woock, a representative of one of the honored pioneer families
of Dodge county, is well known as a prosperous agriculturist of Oak Grove town-
ship, owning a highly improved farm of eighty acres on section 16. His birth
occurred in Burnett township, this county, on the 14th of May, 1878, his parents
being Charles and Louisa (Graf) Woock. The father is a native of Dodge
county, this state, while the mother was born in Germany. The paternal grand-
father of our subject became a pioneer settler of the eastern part of this county
and was killed while felling trees in clearing a homestead here, his son Charles
being at that time but three days old. Charles Woock, the father of August
F. Woock, followed farming throughout his active business career and also
worked at carpentering. Soon after his marriage he became a landowner in
Burnett township, where he has resided continuously since, now living retired.
He held some local offices in the early days and is well known and highly es-
teemed throughout the county in which his entire life has been spent. Unto him
and his wife were born four children, as follows: August F., of this review;
William, John and Robert, all three of whom reside in Burnett township.
The four sons all follow farming and are landowners.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
103
August F. Woock attended the district schools of his native township in the
acquirement of an education and when a youth of seventeen began working
as a farm hand for others, being thus employed for about five years. Subse-
quently he cultivated rented land in Trenton township for three or four years
and on the expiration of that period purchased the farm in association with
a brother, while at the end of about seven years he became sole owner of the
property. Disposing of that place, he bought a farm of eighty acres in Oak
Grove township, in 1907, where he has resided to the present time. His land
is rich and productive and his buildings are modern and up-to-date. The neat
and thrifty appearance of his farm indicates the supervision of a practical and
progressive owner, and his labors as an agriculturist have been attended with
gratifying success. He is likewise a stockholder in the Juneau Cheese & But-
ter Company.
On the 1 2th of September, 1901, Mr. Woock was united in marriage to
Miss Lillie Webber, who was born in Burnett township, this county, on the 1st
of April, 1 881, her parents being Henry D. and Carrie (Hasse) Webber, na-
tives of Germany. They came to the United States with their respective par-
ents, took up their abode among the early settlers of Dodge county and were
here married. Henry D. Webber was formerly a farmer and landowner of Bur-
nett township but is now living retired at Juneau. He served with the Union
army throughout the period of the Civil war and, being wounded, was confined
in a hospital for some time. His wife is also yet living. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Woock have been born three children, as follows : Ella, whose natal day was
October 31, 1903; Leonard, whose birth occurred on the 25th of June, 1905,
and who passed away on the 13th of April, 1906; and Arnold, who was born
on the 3d of July, 1906.
In politics Mr. Woock is independent, supporting men and measures rather
than party. In religious faith he is a Lutheran. Both he and his wife have al-
ways lived in Dodge county and have an extensive circle of friends here.
EDWARD C. OESTREICH.
Edward C. Oestreich is the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and
eighty-five acres on section 24, Oak Grove township, and devotes his attention
to the dairy business. That place has remained his home from his birth to the
present time, his natal day being March 11, 1875. His parents were Ferdinand
and Caroline (Schiebel) Oestreich, the former born in Stettin, Germany, on the
27th of August, 1837, and the latter in Saxony on the 25th of December, 1846.
Their marriage was celebrated in Watertown, this county. Ferdinand Oest-
reich, who emigrated to the United States in 1862, was a locksmith by trade
and worked at that occupation in Watertown for a time, while subsequently he
was employed as a machinist for two or three years. He then took up his
abode in Juneau and there conducted a saloon for three and a half years. On
the expiration of that period he purchased the farm which is now in possession
of our subject, operating the same successfully until 1906, when he sold the
property to his son Edward. He continued to reside thereon, however, until
104
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
called to his final rest on the 4th of May, 1912, having for more than eight years
survived his wife, who passed away on the 1st of February, 1904. The period
of his residence in Dodge county covered a half century and he enjoyed a wide
and favorable acquaintance within its borders. Unto him and his wife were
born five children, as follows: Clara, who resides with her brother Edward;
William, who is engaged in the hardware business at New London, Wis-
consin; Emil, who is engaged in business with his brother, William; Alfred,
who passed away when eleven years of age ; and Edward C, of this review.
The last named acquired his education in the district schools of Oak Grove
township and after putting aside his text -books assisted his father in the opera-
tion of the home farm, beginning to receive wages when a youth of eighteen
and continuing to work in that way until twenty-nine years of age. In 1904
he rented the place and eighteen months later purchased the property, which
comprises one hundred and eighty-five acres of valuable land. The farm is well
improved in every particular and the buildings thereon are both substantial and
modern. Mr. Oestreich devotes his attention principally to dairying, keeping
about thirty-five head of Holstein cattle. He is likewise a stockholder in the
Juneau Telephone Company and is widely recognized as a prosperous and
enterprising citizen of his native county.
On the 12th of June, 1007, Mr. Oestreich was united in marriage to Miss
Adela Griep, who was born in Oak Grove township on the 30th of October,
1886, her parents being Otto and Minnie (Wrucke) Griep, both natives of
Dodge county. The father, who has followed general agricultural pursuits
throughout his entire business career, now resides in Hubbard township, where
he owns a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Griep have
been born seven children, of whom Mrs. Oestreich is the only daughter and
the third in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Oestreich have one child, Harvey
Earl, whose natal day was June 15, 1908.
In politics Mr. Oestreich is independent, supporting the men and measures
that he deems will best conserve the general welfare, without regard to party
ties. He attends the services of the Lutheran church and is a member of the
American Society of Equity. Both Mr. and Mrs. Oestreich have a very extensive
acquaintance in the county where they have always resided and because of their
upright and honorable lives are uniformly esteemed.
Edward F. Lueck, a worthy native son and enterprising agriculturist of Oak
Grove township, devotes his attention to the operation of a farm of one hundred
and twenty acres on section 25. His birth occurred on the 26th of June, 1886,
his parents being Christopher Fred and Minnie (Schmidt) Lueck, both of whom
are natives of Brandenburg, Germany. The father was born on the 31st of
December, 1849, while the mother's natal day was August 16, 1 85 1 . Their
marriage was cerebrated in Lomira township, Dodge county, Wisconsin. Chris-
topher F. Lueck was but a small boy when he accompanied his parents on their
emigration to the United States, and his father died soon afterward. He grew
EDWARD F. LUECK.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
105
to manhood in Lebanon township, this county, and subsequently removed to
Minnesota, where he became the owner of a small farm. A short time afterward,
however, he disposed of the property and returned to Dodge county, purchasing
a farm in Oak Grove township and residing thereon for about ten years. On
the expiration of that period he sold the place and bought the farm on which
his son Edward now resides. In 1907 he put aside the active work of the fields,
leased the property and took up his abode in Juneau. Two years later he re-
turned to the farm but after residing thereon for one year leased the place to
our subject and went back to Juneau, where he has since lived in honorable
retirement. Both Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Lueck still survive and enjoy an extensive
and favorable acquaintance throughout the county which has been their home
for so many years. Unto them were born four children, as follows: William,
who is a mason by trade and resides in Juneau; Emil, who passed away at the
age of nine years; Edward F., of this review; and Alma, the wife of E. A.
Mieske, of Horicon.
Edward F. Lueck obtained his early education in Oak Grove township and
also pursued a course of study in the high school at Juneau. When a youth of
fourteen he began working for others as a farm hand and was thus employed for
six years. Subsequently he spent two years at the carpenter's trade and after-
ward worked for his father for one year. He then rented the homestead from
his father and has since devoted his attention to its operation, making a specialty
of dairying and of the raising of Poland China hogs and Holstein cattle. The
place comprises one hundred and twenty acres of land and is highly improved
and developed.
On the 22d of September, 1910, Mr. Lueck was united in marriage to Miss
Lydia Amanda Beyer, who was bom in Williamstown township, this county,
on the 19th of September, 1892. They now have one child. Hazel Alma Hattie,
whose natal day was January 4, 1912. Mr. Lueck gives his political allegiance
to the democracy, believing firmly in the principles of that party. He is a
member of the Reformed church at Juneau and also belongs to the Equity
society of the Farmers Union. Both he and his wife have always remained in
this county and are well known and highly esteemed as young people of upright,
honorable lives.
WILLIAM M. BEYER.
William M. Beyer, the father of Mrs. Edward F. Lueck, owns and operates
a well ^improved farm of one hundred and five acres. His birth occurred in
Theresa township, this county, on the 12th of February, 1851, his parents being
Charles and Frederica (Castcner) Beyer, both of whom were natives of Prussia,
Germany. Their marriage was celebrated in Dodge county, Wisconsin, Charles
Beyer having emigrated to this country in 1847 and Miss Castener in the follow-
ing year. Mr. Beyer took up a timber claim in Theresa township and con-
ducted a small store. Subsequently he took up his abode on a farm near Hori-
con, west of Mayville, continuing to reside thereon for about twenty years. On
the expiration of that period he removed to Fayette county, Illinois, and was
106
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
there engaged in farming until the time of his demise, which occurred in 1875.
His wife passed away some years later.
In the acquirement of an education William M. Beyer attended the district
schools of Theresa township and also a German school. When twenty-seven
years of age he started out as an agriculturist on his own account, purchasing
a farm and being busily engaged in its operation for about twenty-four years.
At the end of that time, having met with financial reverses, he returned to
Dodge county and spent some time in the employ of others. He then purchased
a small farm in Williamstown township and made his home thereon for about
nine years. In 1901 he bought the farm of one hundred and five acres on which
he has since resided and where he carries on general farming and dairying. Suc-
cess has attended his efforts in this connection, and he is widely recognized as
one of the substantial and respected citizens of his native county.
On the 24th of June, 1879, Mr. Beyer was united in marriage to Miss Louisa
Sasse, who was born in Theresa township, this county, on the 20th of August,
1857, her parents being Charles and Sophia (Bradig) Sasse, natives of Germany.
Mr. Sasse, a tailor by trade, became a farmer and landowner of Theresa town-
ship and later took up his abode in Fayette county, Illinois, where both he and
his wife passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Beyer have eight children, as follows:
Emma,, who is the wife of Robert Teltzrow and resides in Dodge county ; Helen,
the wife of William Buchta, who is a carpenter residing in South Bend, Indiana ;
Hulda, who gave her hand in marriage to Oscar Blohm, a tailor of Beaver Dam ;
Gustav, who resides at home; Bernhardt, who is a cheesemaker living near
Brandon; Frederich, twin brother of Bernhardt, who is a cheesemaker residing
near Fox Lake; Anna, the wife of Alex Voss, who is a farmer living near Hori-
con ; and Lydia A., the wife of Edward F. Lueck. In politics Mr. Beyer is an
independent republican, while his religious faith is that of the Lutheran church.
His life in all of its various relations has been of such a character as to com-
mand the respect and esteem of those with whom he has beep associated.
ALBERT SCHW ANTES.
Albert Schwantes, the owner of a valuable tract of one hundred and sixty
acres on section 26, Oak Grove township, devotes his attention to the pursuits
of farming, stock raising and dairying and in all of his undertakings has met
with success. His birth occurred in the province of Pommern, Germany, on
the 28th of January, 1865, his parents being August and Amelia (Schultz)
Schwantes, likewise natives of that province. The father was born on the 28th
of September, 1842, while the mother's birth occurred on the 20th of March,
1840. August Schwantes served as a member of the regular army in Germany.
In 1872 he emigrated to the United States with his family, locating in Water-
town, Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he worked for others. Subsequently
he took up his abode in Hustisford township and there continued in the employ
of others for some time. He next spent live years in Washington county but
on the expiration of that period returned to Hustisford township, this county,
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
107
here residing until called to his final rest on the 3d of December, 191 1. His
wife passed away in 1909.
Albert Schwantes, the first born in a family of six children, acquired his
education in the schools of Hustisford township. After attaining his majority
he rented a farm in that township and was busily engaged in its operation for
seven years. At the end of that time he purchased one hundred and sixty acres
of land in Oak Grove township and has since devoted his attention to the further
cultivation and improvement of the place, having erected modern buildings
and added all the conveniences and accessories of a model farm of the twentieth
century. He is engaged in both farming and stock raising and also devotes con-
siderable attention to dairying, keeping a fine herd of cattle. He has ever been
a diligent and progressive man and his earnest and intelligently directed labor
constitutes the basis of his success.
On the 28th of February, 1887, Mr. Schwantes was united in marriage to
Miss Bertha Grulke, who was born in the province of Pommern. Germany, on
the 3d of April, 1866, her parents being John and Hannah Grulke, also natives
of Pommern. They crossed the Atlantic to the United States about 1882 and
located on a farm in Hustisford township, this county, where Mr. Grulke passed
away in 1907. His widow is still living in that township. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Schwantes have been born six children, as follows : Anna, whose birth occurred
on the 18th of May, 1888, and who is now the wife of Henry Rolaff, a farmer
residing in Hubbard township; Alfred, who was born on the 20th of March,
1890; Mata, whose natal day was August 20, 1892; Arthur, born Sa p tem be f 10,
1895; Hubert, born October 12, 1898; and one who died in infancy. MAr "
In politics Mr. Schwantes is a stanch republican, exercising his right of
franchise in support of the men and measures of that party. In religious faith
he is a Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination at Juneau. Widely
known in the county where he has resided from boyhood days, he has an exten-
sive acquaintance here and has won uniform trust and good will by reason of
a life which in all of its phases has been straightforward and honorable.
THEODOR HUTH.
With the death of Theodor Huth in Beaver Dam on January 28, 1902,
Dodge county lost one of its earliest pioneers, a man who was an influential
force in its commercial upbuilding. His residence in Wisconsin dates from 1850
and he lived in Beaver Dam since 1856. From that time until his death he was
identified with some of the largest industrial concerns in the city and also did
constructive work in politics. He was born in Rossla, Prussia, on April 4,
1832. and is a son of Alexander and Henrietta Huth. He received his educa-
tion in the public schools of his native country and upon coming to America
in 1850 located in Milwaukee. He remained in that city for six years coming to
Beaver Dam in 1856 where he maintained his residence until the time of his
death. He was identified with some of the most representative industries
in Dodge county, as president of the German National Bank. He did efficient
work in promoting commercial and industrial expansion and as a large stock-
106
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
holder in the Beaver Dam Cotton Mills and Malleable Iron Works he proved
his business ability. His undoubted honor and integrity won him a high
place in the esteem and respect of his fellow citizens and his influence was al-
ways given to worthy causes and applied to the benefit of his community.
In 1851 Mr. Huth was united in marriage to Miss Anna B. Keil of Mil-
waukee, who died some time ago. On April 30, 1895, Mr. Huth was again
united in marriage. His second wife was in her maidenhood Miss Barbara
M. Sherman, a daughter of John and Eva (Schwerdt) Sherman, who lived
in Beaver Dam for many years. They were originally from Germany and set-
tled first in Oswego, New York, whence they came to Wisconsin. Mrs. Huth
is one of five children born to her parents. The others are : Lawrence, who died
when he was thirty-seven years of age ; Caroline, now Mrs. Peter Buele of
Beaver Dam ; Julia, who has passed away ; and John, who is practicing medicine
in Beaver Dam. Mr. and Mrs. Huth became the parents of two children:
Herman R., born April 8, 1898, who is attending the public schools; and
Theodora, who died at the age of six months.
In 1879 Mr. Huth was chosen chief of the fire department which was the
first organization of its kind in Beaver Dam. He held this position and con-
ducted the duties of his office with ability and success for several years. He
was alderman for two terms and mayor of the city from 1883 to 1884. His
political career was distinguished by high ideals of personal service and by con-
stant striving to promote the interests of his fellow citizens. He was a Luth-
eran in his religious faith and was president of the First Lutheran church of
Beaver Dam for over twenty-five years and did constructive work in promot-
ing the interests of that organization. His careful and systematic methods of
business resulted in acquiring a comfortable fortune which was always used
judiciously, for the benefit and upbuilding of this section of the country. Dur-
ing his life he was a witness of the gradual growth and development of Dodge
county and bore an honorable part in its political and financial development.
His death deprived the city of Beaver Dam of an upright and honorable Chris-
tian gentleman.
William F. Schunemann is the owner of an excellent farm of two hundred
acres on section 11, Oak Grove township, which he devotes almost exclusively
to dairying, having on hand about eighty head of pure bred Jerseys. His birth
occurred near Berlin, Germany, on the 24th of January, 1858, his parents being
Fred and Sophia (Finger) Schunemann, both of whom were born near Berlin
in the year 1833. In 1862 they emigrated to the United States, coming direct
to Lowell. Dodge county. Wisconsin. One year later they located on a farm
where Fred Schunemann cultivated rented land for a number of years. About
1882 he removed to South Dakota, purchased and located on a farm of two hun-
dred acres in Spink county and there passed away in 1883. The demise of his
wife occurred in Redficld, South Dakota, about 1903.
WILLIAM F. SCHUNEMANN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
109
William F. Schunemann, who was the second in order of birth in a family
of eight children, obtained his early education in the schools of Herman and
Oak Grove townships and later pursued a high-school course in Trenton town-
ship. When about twenty-four years of age he was married and began operating
the farm then belonging to his wife and on which he has resided to the present
time. He has extended its boundaries by the purchase of eighty acres and it
now embraces two hundred acres. He devotes his attention principally to dairy-
ing, breeding pure bred Jerseys and having on hand about eighty head of pure-
bred stock. His stock commands fancy prices and he has made shipments to all
parts of the United States. He is a stockholder in the Juneau Cooperative Mer-
cantile Company and has long been numbered among the enterprising and pros-
perous citizens of this county.
On the 21st of December, 1881, Mr. Schunemann was united in marriage to
Miss Ellen Barrott, who was born near Oswego, New York, on the 18th of June,
1847, her parents being Morrison and Diana Barrott, likewise natives of the
Empire state. The father was a farmer by occupation and also worked at the
cooper's trade. It was in 1855 that Mr. and Mrs. Barrott came west to Dodge
county, this state, locating on the farm which is now in possession of our sub-
ject. Morrison Barrott here passed away in 1886, at the age of ninety-one years,
having for three decades survived his wife, whose demise occurred in 1856.
Mr. Schunemann exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and
measures of the republican party but has never sought nor held office. He attends
the services of the Methodist Episcopal church but is not a member thereof.
He has lived in this county for a half century and there is no better evidence
of the sterling worth of his character than the fact that many of his stanches*
friends are those who have known him from youth, having found him true to
high principles in every relation of life.
ERNST KUEHN.
Ernst Kuehn, who devotes his attention to general agricultural pursuits in
Oak Grove township, is the owner of a farm of eighty-one and a half acres on
section 2 and in its operation has won success. His birth occurred in Hubbard
township, Dodge county, on the 7th of August, 1878, his parents being Wil-
liam and Louisa (Schwanke) Kuehn, both of whom were natives of Germany.
The father emigrated to the United States about 1871 and came direct to this
county, settling in Hubbard township, where he purchased a farm and spent
the remainder of his life. His demise in 1907 was the occasion of deep and
widespread regret, for he had gained an extensive circle of friends during the
period of his residence in this county, which covered more than a third of a
century. His widow, who still survives, makes her home with our subject.
Ernst Kuehn, the youngest in a family of nine children, obtained his early
education in the schools of his native township and subsequently attended the
high school at Horicon for two terms. He remained on the home farm and as-
sisted in its operation until thirty-one years of age, when he purchased a tract of
eighty-one and a half acres two and a half miles west of Horicon, the further
110
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cultivation and improvement of which has since claimed his time and attention.
In connection with the production of cereals he raises enough stock for his
own use, and in his labors as an agriculturist has won a creditable measure of
prosperity.
In politics Mr. Kuehn is a stalwart democrat but he has never sought nor
desired office as a reward for his party fealty. His religious faith is indicated
hy his membership in the Lutheran church at Horicon. He has lived in Dodge
county from his birth to the present time and is widely and favorably known
within its borders.
Among Beaver Dam's successful business men, the men who have made for
themselves a notable name and place, and in promoting individual interests
have also contributed to public prosperity, is John W. Miller, vice president of
the German National Bank. The greater part of his life has been devoted to the
marble business and in that field of activity he won a substantial measure of his
success. He was born in Columbus, Wisconsin, February 22, 1856, and is a
son of J. C. and Catherine (Linck) Miller, both of whom were of German
birth and crossed the Atlantic to the United States in 1853. They became resi-
dents of Columbus, Wisconsin, and were there married. The father purchased
land and engaged in farming until 1872, when he took up his abode in the city
of Columbus, where he resided to the time of his death in July, 1894. His
widow survived him for about eleven years and passed away in February, 1905.
They were consistent members of the Methodist church and commanded the
high regard of all who knew them.
John W. Miller was the only son in a family of four children. At the usual
age he entered the public schools of his native city, passing through consecutive
grades until he became a high-school student. He entered business circles in
his boyhood days as an employe in a harness shop, working at that trade for
a year, after which he learned the marble-cutting trade, which he followed until
he reached the age of twenty-three. In 1879 he came to Beaver Dam, where he
entered the firm of Turner & Blumenthal as a partner under the style of Tur-
ner, Miller & Blumenthal. He continued in the business world in that connec-
tion for nineteen years, at the end of which time he purchased his partner's
interests and became owner of the Beaver Dam Marble Works. After carry-
ing on the business for twelve years he sold out and has since lived practically
retired In the meantime he had enjoyed an enviable patronage, for excellent
workmanship and honorable dealing had commended him to the confidence of
the public. He has been well known in banking circles as the vice president of
the old German National Bank since 1907. He is one of the stockholders and
secretary of the Beaver Dam Woolen Mills and at one time was president of
the Beaver Dam Malleable Iron Range Company, of which he still remains as
a director. He is likewise a director of the Beaver Dam Malleable Iron Works
and the Beaver Dam Manufacturing Company. Keen sagacity and unflagging
enterprise are salient features in his success and have brought him to his present
enviable position.
JOHN W. MILLER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
113
In 1880 Mr. Miller was married to Miss Josephine Kluckhohn, of Columbus,
a daughter of the Rev. F. Kluckhohn, who is of German descent and came here at
an early day. To Mr. and Mrs. Miller were born five children, of whom two
sons and two daughters are yet living: Clarence E., who is assistant cashier
of the First National Bank, of Columbus, Wisconsin ; Albert G-, assistant cashier
of the German National Bank, of Beaver Dam; Gertrude, who is a bookkeeper
in the German National Bank; and Edith, at home. A daughter, Goldie, died
at the age of nineteen years.
The parents are members of the Methodist church and guide their lives by
its teachings. Mr. Miller belongs to the Masonic order and to Beaver Dam
Commandery, K. T. In politics he is a republican and has filled a number of
local offices. At one time he was candidate for county treasurer and, although
defeated, he ran far ahead of his ticket, which indicates his personal popularity
and the confidence reposed in him. For fourteen years he has been a member
of the school board and his influence has been cast on the side of many progres-
sive movements for the benefit of public education here. He started out in life
empty-handed but determination and energy have paved the way to success
for him. He early realized that there is no royal road to wealth but that industry
and determination will conquer all obstacles. Accordingly, in utilizing these
qualities in large measure, he has gained for himself the present enviable posi-
tion which he occupies among the business men of Beaver Dam.
WILLIAM H. BECKEN.
William H. Becken was for many years prominently and widely known in
Beaver Dam as a successful and expert jeweler. He has now abandoned this
field of activity and is engaged in general merchandising. He has met in this
occupation with all the prosperity and progress which attended his former line
of endeavor and is recognized as a man who is doing more than his share to
contribute to the growth of his city. He was born in Waterloo, Wisconsin, De-
cember 25, 1869. His father was a native of Germany and foliowed farming .
in that country for a number of years. He also served in the fatherland as
secretary to King William and was loyal and faithful to the institutions of his
native land. He was a successful and prosperous man, entirely self-made.
His only learning was that which he derived from extensive and varied reading.
He fanned in Newville township, Jefferson county, Wisconsin, for a number oi
years and gained prosperity and success in this line. A few years previous to his
death he retired from active life and removed to the city of Waterloo, Wisconsin,
in 1883. His wife in her maidenhood was Miss Johanna Lamphool and their mar-
riage occurred in Wisconsin. Four children were born to their union : August D.,
of Lakemills, Wisconsin; Charles F., a resident of Waterloo; William H, the
subject of this sketch ; and Lydia, who died at the age of three years.
William H. Becken was reared at home and received his education in the
public schools of Waterloo. He later attended high school in that city, laying
aside his books at the age of seventeen. He served an apprenticeship in the
jewelry business, followed by a course in horology at Laporte, Indiana, thus
fitting himself to engage in a lucrative and specialized branch of his chosen oc-
v<*. n-T
114
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cupation. He followed this line for a number of years and did special work
as instructor in the Laporte schools for one year, at the end of which time
he established himself in the jewelry business in Beaver Dam, opening a store
on February I, 1903. He located in the old Tippenhauer building, from which
he later removed to the Wagner block. He was prosperous and successful as
a jeweler, building up his business from a comparatively small beginning to one
of the most flourishing enterprises of its kind in the city. He eventually dis-
posed of his interests in this line of occupation to Bailey & Company, on Febru-
ary 24, 1909, and purchased the general merchandise business of B. E. Law-
ton. He has been operating this along modern and progressive lines since that
time and has met with a gratifying degree of success. His store is tastefully
and attractively arranged and his stock is complete in every detail. Mr. Becken
has brought to its management a business discernment and a judicious mind
combined with commercial shrewdness and ability of a high order. His suc-
cess is natural, based as it is upon qualities which insure prosperity.
On the 3d of June, 1896, Mr. Becken was united in marriage to Miss Lydia
E. Martin, a daughter of Jacob and Mary A. Martin, of Beaver Dam. Mrs.
Becken was one of seven children : Jacob and Carrie, both of whom are de-
ceased ; Rose, who is Mrs. R. A. Welch of Beaver Dam ; Lydia, the wife of our
subject; Laura E., who married A. Robinson and is residing in Huron, South
Dakota; Elsie, who became the wife of H. Montgomery of Hartford, Wis-
consin; and Alfred, who is living in Beaver Dam. Mrs. Becken is a charming
woman of many attainments and has many friends in Beaver Dam who have
known her from childhood. She and her husband are the parents of two chil-
dren: Carl M., born March 13, 1897; and Adela, whose birth occurred on March
31, 1902, and who is a student in Wayland Academy.
Mr. Becken gives his allegiance to the democratic party but is not person-
ally active in public affairs, preferring to devote his attention to the progress
and expansion of his mercantile enterprise. He is prominent in Masonry,
belonging to the lodge and chapter and is also active in the affairs of the Tribe
of Ben Hur and the Royal Arcanum. He is also a member of the Modern
Woodmen of America in which organization he has served as clerk for eleven
years, his term expiring in 191 1. Mr. Becken has been successful in the broad
lines of activity which have marked his career as a resident of Beaver Dam.
He is an expert manager with sound business judgment and keen discernment,
and his store is justly accounted a leading commercial enterprise.
J. R. Krueger, who is now living retired on his farm of sixty-eight acres on
section 3, Oak Grove township, also owns another improved tract of eighty-one
and two-thirds acres here and was for a number of years actively engaged in
general agricultural pursuits. His birth occurred at Cologne on the Rhine, Ger-
many, on the 2d of September, 1842, his parents being Charles and Christina
(Duezing) Krueger, who were likewise natives of that country. The father there
followed fanning throughout his entire business career and passed away in
1910 at the age of eighty-nine years and six months. The mother is still living
in Germany.
J. R. KRUEGER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
115
J. R. Krueger obtained his education in the schools of the fatherland and
when fourteen and a half years of age began learning the molders trade, work-
ing at that occupation until he entered the regular army, in which he served for
seven years and nine months. In 1872 he crossed the Atlantic to the United
States and after spending a couple of weeks in New York made his way to
Detroit, Michigan, where he was employed as a molder for eighteen months.
At the end of that time he removed to Hartford, Wisconsin, and there worked
for ten years. On the expiration of that period he bought the farm of sixty-
eight acres on which he now resides and also came into possession of another
improved tract of eighty-one and two-thirds acres, devoting his attention to
general agricultural pursuits until the death of his wife in 1901. For the past
eleven years he has lived in honorable retirement, renting his land and employing
the services of a housekeeper. He won success in his undertakings as a farmer
and has long been numbered among the substantial and esteemed citizens of the
community.
In October, 1873, Mr. Krueger was united in marriage to Miss Christiana
Ohldreg, who was born in Greifswald, Pommern, Germany, on the 27th of Sep-
tember, 1835. Two children were born- unto them, namely : Charles, who is
engaged in the furniture business in Chicago and Mary, who is employed 'as
cashier by Siegel, Cooper & Company of Chicago. The wife and mother was
called to her final rest on the 5th of May, 1901.
At the polls Mr. Krueger supports the men and measures of the republican
party, believing firmly in its principles. The honors and emoluments of office,
however, have never had any attraction for him. In religious faith he is a
Lutheran. Coming to the new world in early manhood, he here found the op-
portunities which he sought and in their utilization has won a place among the
prosperous and representative citizens of this county.
HERMAN A. BECKER.
Herman A. Becker, a prosperous and leading agriculturist of Oak Grove
township, is the owner of an excellent farm of two hundred and forty-one acres
and makes a specialty of dairying. His birth occurred near Juneau, Dodge
county, on the 18th of November, 1866, his parents being August and Christine
(Lindemann) Becker, both of whom were natives of Germany. August Becker
accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States about 1847,
the family home being established at Mayville, Wisconsin, and for some time
thereafter he worked for others. Subsequently he purchased a house and two-
acre lot in Juneau and also bought a cow but was obliged to borrow the necessary
pails in which to put the milk. He made his home on that place for several
years and during that period worked at any employment that offered itself.
Trading his property for a sixty-acre farm a mile and a half west of Juneau,
he began the operation of the place and was successfully engaged in its further
cultivation and improvement throughout the remainder of his life. His demise
occurred when his son Herman was but six months old. It was in this county
that he had wedded Miss Christine Lindemann, who continued to reside on the
home farm until she passed away in 1886.
116
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Herman A. Becker, the youngest in a family of five children, obtained his
education in the schools of Juneau. After putting aside his text-books he
worked for others at intervals, residing with his widowed mother and also
assisting in the operation of the home place. When a young man of twenty-
three years he purchased the homestead and two years later, in 1891, disposed
of the property and bought two hundred and forty-one acres of land on sections
28, 29 and 32 in Oak Grove township in association with his brother-in-law.
They carried on general agricultural pursuits in partnership for nine years, on
the expiration of which period Mr. Becker purchased the interest of his brother-
in-law and has since remained the sole owner of the farm. He has made a
number of substantial improvements on the property, which at the present time
is well equipped in every particular. In connection with the cultivation of
cereals he makes a specialty of dairying and likewise devotes considerable atten-
tion to the raising of pure-bred Holstein cattle. He is a stockholder in the
Juneau Telephone Company and in the cooperative store at Juneau and well de-
serves recognition among the enterprising and representative citizens of his
native county.
On the 22d of November, 1891, Mr. Becker was united in marriage to Miss
Frances Sell, who was born in the northwest part of Jefferson county, Wisconsin,
near Columbus, in September, 1874, her parents being Herman and Bertha
(Kramer) Sell. Her mother resides in Watertown. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Becker
have been born six children, as follows : Arthur, whose birth occurred on the 1 ith
of August, 1892; Alex, whose natal day was December 14, 1893; Herbert, who
was born on the 28th of September, 1895; Leonard, born February 17, 1898;
Harold, who was born October 13, 1908; and Rubin, born September 18, 1912.
The parents also have an adopted daughter, Oda, who was born April 1. 1891,
and whom they adopted as an orphan at the age of thirteen years.
In politics Mr. Becker is an independent democrat and, though often urged
to become a candidate for office, has always declined to enter public life, prefer-
ring to concentrate his attention upon his business affairs. His religious faith
is indicated by his membership in the German Reformed church at Juneau and
he also belongs to the American Society of Equity. He is interested in all that
pertains to progressive public movements, although he has always shunned public
office, and both in citizenship and in private life he has manifested the sterling
traits of character which everywhere command respect and regard.
John C. Griner, a well known and highly esteemed citizen of Dodge county,
is successfully engaged in business at Rolling Prairie as a general merchant.
His birth occurred at Watertown, New York, on the 2d of December, 1864, his
parents being John Jacob and Catharine (Gall) Griner, both of whom were natives
of Germany. The father was born on the 5th of April, 1822, while the mother's
natal year was 1829. Their marriage was celebrated in the Flmpirc state. John
Jacob Griner served his term in the regular army of Germany and then emigrated
to the United States, locating at Munnsville, New York, where he worked at
the trade of shoemaking. Subsequently he made his way to Watertown, that
JOHN C. GRINER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
117
state, there residing until' the winter of 1865, when he came to Wisconsin.
After spending about a year at Theresa he came to Rolling Prairie in 1866 and
here worked as a shoemaker for about fifteen years. On the expiration of that
period he began farming here, cultivating rented land until 1884, when he again
took up his abode in Rolling Prairie, where he is still living at the advanced age
of about ninety-one years. After putting aside the active work of the fields, not
being content to live in idleness, be busied himself as a carpet weaver. While
in New York he enlisted for service in the Civil war but procured a substitute
by making him a pair of boots. He has now been a resident of Dodge county
for forty-seven years and enjoys an extensive and favorable acquaintance within
its borders.
Mr. and Mrs. John J. Griner celebrated their golden wedding. The wife
was called to her final rest in 1902. Their children are eight in number, namely :
William, a carpenter and builder of Beaver Dam; Louise, who is the widow
of William Wampole and resides in Chicago; George, who resides at Rolling
Prairie and acts as station agent for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Rail-
road Company; Carrie, the wife of Charles Wing, a decorator and contractor
of Chicago; Minnie, who is the wife of Edward Ralston, a furniture dealer of
El Centro, California ; John C. of this review ; Nellie, who makes her home in
Rolling Prairie; and Charles, who lives in Chicago and is an employe of the
Edison Electric Company.
In the acquirement of an education John C. Griner attended the schools of
Rolling Prairie and South Beaver Dam. On attaining his majority he began
work at the carpenter's trade here and about two years later entered the service
of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company as a carpenter, being
thus employed for six years and traveling considerably over the state. Subse-
quently he spent a year with the Wisconsin Agricultural Society at Milwaukee
and then returned to Rolling Prairie, here resuming work at the carpenter's trade
and later being employed by the railroad company for a short period. He then
purchased a building in which he has since conducted business, carrying a line
of general merchandise and enjoying a gratifying patronage. Above the store
is a public hall. In connection with his mercantile interests Mr. Griner has also
been engaged in carpentering, and he is widely known throughout the community
as an industrious, enterprising and respected citizen.
On the 14th of July, 1903, Mr. Griner was united in marriage to Miss Nevada
Hawley, who was born in Franktown, Nevada, on the 2d of April, 1862, her par-
ents being Wright and Phoebe (Bentley) Hawley, natives of Dutchess county,
New York. The mother was born in 1834, the father being some years her
senior. Wright Hawley journeyed westward across the plains in 1859 an0 "
engaged in mining in Nevada, being identified with that line of work until he
passed away about 1875. His widow, who still survives, makes her home in
Rolling Prairie. It was in 1842 that her parents took up their abode among
the pioneer settlers of Dodge county, Wisconsin. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hawley
were born five children, as follows : Francis and Mary, both of whom are de-
ceased; Mrs. Nevada Griner; Albert, who has passed away; and Ardell, who
died in 1900 and was the wife of Albert Yates of Oak Grove township.
Mr. Griner is a democrat and has ably served in the capacity of justice of
the peace and also as constable, but his aspirations have not been in the line of
118
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
office holding. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to Lodge
No. 72, at Beaver Dam, in which he has passed through the chairs. In business
life he is well known for his alert and enterprising spirit, and his salient quali-
ties and characteristics are such as win honor and success. Practically his entire
life has been spent in this county and therefore his record cannot fail to prove
of interest to many of our readers.
A good farm of eighty-three acres on section 28, Oak Grove township, pays
tribute to the care and cultivation bestowed upon it by its present owner, Rich-
ard Frederick Otto. Everything about the place is neat in appearance and
indicates his progressive spirit and thrift and the practical methods which he
pursues in tilling the soil and caring for the crops. His birth occurred in Pom-
mern, Germany, on the 3d of April, 1882, his parents being Frederick and
Johanna (Jaeger) Otto, who were likewise natives of that province. The father,
who worked for others during his entire business career, passed away in Germany
about 1892. In 1894 the mother and children emigrated to the United States
and located in Ashippun township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, where they resided
for about five years. Subsequently Mrs. Otto made her home in Hustisford
township with her son Emil, who operated a rented farm there. Since 1910
she has lived with her daughter, Mrs. Schmiedeke, in Clyman township, this
county.
Richard F. Otto, who was a lad of twelve years when he came to this country
with his widowed mother, attended school in Ashippun township, Dodge county.
When a youth of fifteen he secured employment as a farm hand in Hustisford
township and later went to other parts of the county, working at farm labor
until the time of his marriage. Following that important event in his life he
cultivated rented land in Hustisford township for one year and then purchased
and located on a farm of eighty-three acres one mile south of Juneau, on which
he has remained continuously since. In connection with the cultivation of
cereals he is engaged in dairying to some extent, both branches of his business
yielding him a gratifying annual income. He is likewise a stockholder in the
Essman cheese factory, which is located near his farm.
On the 28th of January, 1904, Mr. Otto was united in marriage to Miss
Bertha Griep, who was bom in Pommern, Germany, on the 30th of November,
1879, her parents being Herman and Amelia (Bishop) Griep, also natives of
that province. The father served as a soldier in the regular army of Germany.
In 1882 Mr. and Mrs. Griep emigrated to the United States, spending about a
year in Lebanon township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and subsequently taking
up their abode on a rented farm in Hustisford township. Later Mr. Griep pur-
chased a tract of land in that township and thereon spent the remainder of his
life, passing away on the 13th of December, 1906. His widow now makes her
home with our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Otto have two children: Alice, who was
born on the 27th of November, 1905; and Amos, whose birth occurred on the
4th of May, 191 1.
RICHARD FREDERICK OTTO.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
119
Politically Mr. Otto is a stanch democrat, believing firmly in the principles
of that party. He is a devoted member of the Lutheran church at Juneau and
exemplifies its teachings in his daily life. Although still young in years, he gives
promise of attaining the best of success in farming pursuits, as he possesses the
determination of purpose and energy that invariably enable their possessor to
reach the desired goal.
HERMAN RORSCHNEIDER.
Herman Rorschneider, who follows general agricultural pursuits in Oak
Grove township, is the owner of a farm of seventy-nine acres on section 32
and in its operation has won well deserved prosperity. His birth occurred in
Pommern, Germany, on the 23d of December, 1857, his parents being Carl and
Caroline (Brahmer) Rorschneider, who were likewise natives of that province.
The mother died in Germany. In 1882 the father emigrated to the United
States with his family, settling first in Clyman township, Dodge county, Wiscon-
sin, where he worked for others for some time. Subsequently he purchased a
small farm in Oak Grove township, making his home thereon until called to
his final rest about 1909.
In the acquirement of an education Herman Rorschneider attended the
schools of his native land. When a young man of twenty-five years he
was married and immediately afterward set sail for the United States. Making
his way to this county, he worked for one year in a brickyard at Lowell and
subsequently was employed as a farm hand for about five years. On the expira-
tion of that period he rented a tract of land here, being busily engaged in its
cultivation for about twelve years. At the end of that time he purchased a farm
of seventy-nine acres on section 32, Oak Grove township, the operation of which
has claimed his attention continuously since. The modern buildings and other
substantial improvements which adorn the property stand as monuments to his
thrift and enterprise. All of his land is rich and arable and annually yields
good crops which find a ready sale on the market. He also devotes some atten-
tion to live-stock interests, keeping about twenty head of cattle. In his work
he has always followed modern methods, keeping abreast with the times as
advancement is made in agricultural lines.
In March, 1882, Mr. Rorschneider was united in marriage to- Miss Lena
Prust. who was born in the province of Pommern, Germany, on the 16th of
December, 1857. Her mother passed away in that country and her father after-
ward emigrated to the United States, coming to Wisconsin about one year later
than our subject located here. He made his home in Jefferson county until
his death, which occurred about 1895. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rorschneider have
been born six children, as follows: Henry, who is an agriculturist of Dodge
county and makes his home near Waupun ; John, a farmer living near Minnesota
Junction in Oak Grove township; Amanda, the wife of August Putter, who is
an agriculturist of Lowell township ; Otto, who assists his father in the operation
of the home farm ; and Paul and William, who are deceased.
Mr. Rorschneider is independent in politics, preferring not to be bound by
Digitized by Google
120
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
party ties when exercising .his right of franchise. In religious faith he is a
Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination at Oak Grove. Coming
to the United States in early manhood, he eagerly availed himself of the oppor-
tunities offered in a land unhampered by caste or class and has steadily worked
his way upward to a place among the representative and esteemed citizens of his
community. The period of his residence in Dodge county covers three decades,
and the number of his friends has increased as the circle of his acquaintance
has widened.
John Martin Zeiman, owning and operating a well improved farm of one
hundred and eighteen acres in Hubbard township, devotes his attention prin-
cipally to dairying and has won prosperity in his undertakings. His birth oc-
curred in Hustisford, Dodge county, on the 26th of December, 1870, his par-
ents being Henry and Christina (Schultz) Zeiman. The father, who was born
in Waukesha county, Wisconsin, on the 7th of June, 1844, worked at the black-
smith's trade in early manhood and subsequently became a veterinary surgeon.
He also became identified with agricultural pursuits and owned two farms in
Hubbard township, this county, one comprising one hundred and eighteen acres
and the other one hundred and twenty-seven acres. He served as constable
at Hustisford and has acted as supervisor at Horicon, where he still makes his
home. He has been married four times. His first wife, the mother of our sub-
ject, died at the age of twenty-six years, when her son, John M., was but three
months old. For his second wife he chose Mrs. Hannah Greasly, who passed
away nine months later. Mr. Zeiman then married Miss Marguerite Fuiten.
with whom he traveled life's journey for twelve years. The lady who now bears
his name was Miss Louisa Kruegcr and was born in Hubbard township on the
18th of July, 1854.
John Martin Zeiman started out as an agriculturist on his own account when
twenty-seven years of age, beginning the operation of a farm of one hun-
dred and eighteen acres which he received from his father and on which he
has resided continuously since. The land is rich and arable and responds readily
to cultivation. Mr. Zeiman has erected a new residence and has improved the
buildings generally, so that his is now a model farming property. He devotes
his time and energies largely to dairying and in this branch of activity has
won a well merited measure of success.
On the 14th of May, 1902, Mr. Zeiman was united in marriage to Miss
Sclma Schumacher, who was born in the town of Clyman, this county, on the
8th of May, 1879, her parents being Martin and Marie (Deutschman) Schu-
macher, natives of Germany. The father's birth occurred on the 13th of Janu-
ary, 1837, while the mother's natal day was February 7, 1845. Mr. Schumacher,
who followed general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire business ca-
reer, served for four years as a Union soldier in the Civil war, participating in
many battles and being wounded twice. Mr. and Mrs. Zeiman have one child,
Alice, who was born on the 22d of February, 1904, and is now attending school.
JOHN MARTIN ZEIMAN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
121
Politically Mr. Zciman is a stanch republican. The cause of education
has ever found in him a warm friend and he has done able service in its be-
half, acting as school clerk for six years and as school treasurer for three years.
His religious faith is that of the Evangelical church. Both he and his wife are
natives of Dodge county, where they have spent their entire lives and they are
thus well known in this section of the state, being numbered among the es-
teemed residents of Hubbard township.
ALBERT A. ZIMMERMAN.
Albert A. Zimmerman is engaged in the drug business in Beaver Dam, for
which undertaking he made scientific preparation that, added to his practical
experience in that line, well qualifies him for the conduct of one of the lead-
ing stores of this character in the city. He has been a lifelong resident of the
Mississippi valley, his birth having occurred in Rochester, Minnesota, May 30,
1866. His parents were J. C. and Mary (Malich) Zimmerman, the latter of
German birth, coming to the United States when twelve years of age. The fa-
ther, a native of Syracuse, New York, removed westward to Wisconsin as a
young man and settled on school land in Dodge county. He has since been a
resident here with the exception of two years passed in Minnesota and three
years in Fall River, Wisconsin. He is now living retired in Beaver Dam, en-
joying a rest which is the legitimate reward of years of earnest, persistent and
well directed labor. In the family were ten children, of whom nine are still
living, the eldest child having died in infancy. The others are : Albert A. ;
Helene, at home; Mary, the wife of Arthur Radtke, of Beaver Dam; Emma,
the wife of Frank Schmutzler, of this city ; William, whose home is in Chan-
ning, Michigan, where he is acting as chief train dispatcher for the St. Paul
Railroad ; Louis, of Beaver Dam ; Amelia, the wife of Oscar Kneehaus, of St.
Louis ; Etta, the wife of Ed Kneehaus. also a resident of Missouri ; and Charles,
living in Beaver Dam.
Long residence in this city has made Albert A. Zimmerman well known to
his fellow townsmen. His early education was acquired in the public schools
and he was graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison with the
class of 1887, there pursuing a pharmaceutical course. For three and a half
years he clerked in the drug store of Peter Beule and was employed elsewhere
in a similar capacity for several years ; but laudable ambition prompted him to
save his earnings in the hope of one day engaging in business on his own ac-
count, and in 1892, in partnership with J. D. Flack, he purchased a drug store
which they conducted together until 1895, when Mr. Zimmerman purchased Mr.
Flack's interest and has since been sole proprietor. He now has a well ap-
pointed store, carrying a large and carefully selected line of drugs and drug-
gists' sundries, and the tasteful arrangement of his store constitutes a strong
feature of his success.
On the 19th of May, 1892. occurred the marriage of Albert A. Zimmerman
and Miss Ida Galium, of Beaver Dam, and unto them have been born a son,
Walter, who at the age of eighteen years is associated with his father in busi-
122
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ness. The parents are members of the Beavers and Mr. Zimmerman belongs
to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a public-spirited man whose
cooperation may be counted upon to further measures and projects for the
general good. He early recognized the fact that industry is the basis of all
honorable success, and the exercise of that quality throughout his business ca-
reer has placed him in a creditable position among the merchants of his city.
Evan Richards, who has remained within the borders of Dodge county
throughout his entire life, covering a period of more than six decades, has
been engaged in general agricultural pursuits since early manhood and now owns
and operates a farm of thirty acres in the village of Oak Grove. He likewise
conducts an attractive and well patronized hostelry on the place, which is known
as Oak Grove. His birth occurred in Oak Grove township on the 9th of Sep-
tember. 1848, his parents being Evan and Margaret (Meigs) Richards, the
former a native of Wales and the latter of the state of New York. Evan Rich-
ards, Sr., emigrated to the United States in 1844 and made his way direct to
Dodge county, Wisconsin. He preempted a tract of government land, walking
from here to Green Bay for that purpose, and took up his abode one mile north
of the village of Oak Grove. With characteristic energy he cleared and im-
proved his property, continuing to reside thereon until called to his final rest
in December, 1897. As his financial resources increased he purchased land
from time to time until at one period his holdings embraced three hundred and
eighty acres in Oak Grove township. The period of his residence in this county
covered almost six decades and he became widely and favorably known as one
of its prosperous agriculturists and enterprising citizens. His wife passed
away on the old homestead, August 17, 1900.
Evan Richards, who was the fourth in order of birth in a family of nine
children attended the district schools of Oak Grove township in the acquire-
ment of an education. He remained under the parental roof until after he had
attained his majority and when about twenty-three years of age undertook the
management of the home farm in association with his brothers. Subsequently
he received his share of the estate and also purchased a farm of his own in
Beaver Dam township, making his home thereon for eighteen years. On the
expiration of that period he disposed of the property and during the following
two years lived retired in Juneau. He then purchased and located on a tract
of thirty acres within the village limits of Oak Grove and has cultivated the
same continuously since. His beautiful, old-fashioned home, known as Oak
Grove, has been converted into a hotel and he conducts the same most success-
fully.
On the 22d of June, 1886, Mr. Richards was united in marriage to Miss
Mattie Corwith, a native of Lowell township, Dodge county, and a daughter
of John and Hulda Jane (Moon) Corwith. The father was born in Cayuga
county. New York, in 1822, while the mother's birth occurred near Clyde,
Ohio, in 1823. As a young man John Corwith taught school in the Empire
EVAN RICHARDS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
127
ship; Otto, who carries on farming in the same township; and Lydia, who is
with her parents.
Henry J. C. Stueber acquired his education in the public schools of Clyman
township and the German school at Watertown, Wisconsin. He was reared on
the old homestead farm and there remained until the 16th of February, 1903,
when he turned his attention to commercial pursuits, joining his uncle in the
ownership and conduct of a store in Clyman. This partnership continued until
the spring of 1905, when the uncle sold his interest, and the purchaser soon af-
terward sold to Frank Klatt, father-in-law of Mr. Stueber, who has since been
associated with him in the business. They have greatly enlarged their stock
and now have one of the most extensive stores of the kind, carrying a very
attractive line of general merchandise, while their business methods commend
them to the patronage and confidence of the public. Mr. Stueber is also a stock-
holder in the Bank of Clyman and has made judicious investment in property,
owning two of the best residences in the town. He devotes his entire time to his
business and his close application and energy have been the salient features in
his success.
On the 22d of June, 1904, Mr. Stueber was married to Miss Lydia Klatt,
who was born in Clyman township in August, 1887, and is a daughter of Frank
and Anna (Willie) Klatt, both natives of Germany. There are two children of
this marriage: Frieda, born December 13, 1905; and Ruth, born May 5, 191 1.
In politics Mr. Stueber is an independent democrat but has never aspired to
office. He holds membership in the Lutheran church and honorable principles
characterize his life, making him well worthy of the high regard that is uniformly
tendered him. He is an enterprising, diligent man and progressive citizen, who
well deserves mention among the representative residents of Dodge county.
CHARLES WARD.
Charles Ward, the oldest settler in Hubbard township, is now serving his
twelfth year as assessor of Horicon. His birth occurred in Greenfield township,
Erie county, Pennsylvania, on the 24th of March, 1840, his parents being Hiram
K. and Mary (Loope) Ward, both of whom were natives of New York. The
father followed general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business ca-
reer. In October, 1843, he brought his family to Wisconsin, locating about a
mile and a half east of Horicon at Bacon Corners. Subsequently he took up his
abode at Dunn's Corners, four miles east of Horicon, there residing until about
1858. At that time he removed to Marengo, McHenry county, Illinois, where
he purchased a farm and spent the remainder of his life, passing away about
1883. His wife was called to her final rest in April, 1899. Hiram K. Ward
held various local offices and was widely recognized as a worthy and represen-
tative citizen of his community.
Charles Ward obtained his early education in the district schools of Hub-
bard township and also studied at Horicon for a short time, but his advantages
in this direction were limited. However, by reading, observation and experi-
ence he constantly augmented his knowledge until he became a well informed
128
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
man. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-one years of age and
then began working for others as a farm hand. In August, 1862, he enlisted for
service in the Union army as a private of Company C, Twenty-ninth Wiscon-
sin Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Connit. In May, 1863, he met with an
accident and was discharged on account of disability, spending a few months in
the hospital at Helena, Arkansas. After returning home he purchased a yoke
of oxen and for two years was engaged in farming. Subsequently he went to
work in the foundry at the Van Brunt plant, being thus employed until about
1902. At that time he was stricken with paralysis of the muscles, resigned his
position and has since lived practically retired. He was the owner of a fine
tract of six acres within the city limits but has recently sold the property to
his son.
On the 5th of March, 1865, Mr. Ward was united in marriage to Miss Ellen
Cody, who was born at Seneca Falls, New York, on the 17th of May, 1847, her
parents being Edward and Susanna (MacParland) Cody, more extended men-
tion of whom is made on another page of this work in connection with the
sketch of John Freeman, deceased, a brother-in-law of Mrs. Ward. Unto our
subject and his wife have been born three children, namely: Susan, whose
birth occurred on the 1st of July, 1866, and who passed away on the 10th of
May, 1873; Ellen, who was born on the 8th of June, 1870, and is the wife of
Charles J. Webber, a painter and paper hanger of Juneau; and Charles E.,
born July 12, 1872, who is employed as a machinist in the Van Brunt factory at
Horicon.
In politics Mr. Ward is a stalwart democrat. He is now serving in the
capacity of city assessor for the twelfth year and has also held the offices of
deputy sheriff, marshal, deputy game warden, etc., ever discharging the duties
devolving upon him in an efficient and highly commendable manner. He is a
devout communicant of the Roman Catholic church and also belongs to the
Catholic Knights and the Grand Army of the Republic. His wife is a promi-
nent member of the Alter Society at Horicon. His record well deserves a
place in the history of Dodge county, for he is the oldest settler in Hubbard
township and has long been numbered among the respected and esteemed citi-
zens of his community.
Time gives the perspective which places every individual in his proper rela-
tion to the age and district in which he lives. If his worth is of substantial
character and his work of real value to the world time but heightens his fame
and brings a truer appreciation for what he has done. In the case of Daniel C.
Van Brunt the years have established his position as one to whom Horicon and
Dodge county owe a debt of gratitude while the agricultural world at large places
him with that class of men whose labors and inventive genius have constituted
a vital element for improvement and progress.
The Van Brunt family, of Holland origin, was founded in America about
1657 when settlement was made on Long Island. Through successive gencra-
DANIEL C. VAN BRUNT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
131
tions until almost the middle of the nineteenth century the family was repre-
sented in New York. Charles Van Brunt, the father of Daniel C. Van Brunt,
was born in New York. Daniel C. Van Brunt was also a native of the Empire
state, born February 8, 1818, and his youthful days were spent in the usual man-
ner of farm lads of that period. The training which he received from the work
in the fields stood him in good stead in later years when he began studying the
needs of the farmer and attempted the improvement of agricultural machinery
then in use. Before he entered upon his career as an inventor and manufacturer,
however, he learned and for a time followed the wagon-maker's trade, conduct-
ing a wagon shop at Maysville. He turned from this, however, to assist his
brother, George, in working out his ideas concerning the improvement of seeding
machines and they became the originators of the now world-famous Van Brunt
seeders. Practically the entire development of seeding machines has taken place
in the last half century. Previous to i860 when the brothers placed upon the
market a broadcast seeder that would successfully do the work nearly all seeding
of small grain was done by hand. With only an interruption that covered but a
brief period the business thus begun has been continued to the present time.
Improvement after improvement has been made and the demand for the output
has increased until the business in volume and importance is second to none in
the world. For some time the interests were conducted under a partnership
relation but eventually the business was incorporated and Daniel C. Van Brunt
remained as president to the time of his death, which occurred January 14, 1901.
In early manhood Daniel C. Van Brunt was married to Miss Mary Fassett,
who died September 18, 1852. There were three children of that union but
Willard A. Van Brunt, the president of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company,
is the only one now living. For his second wife Mr. Van Brunt chose Mary
Wright, who was born in New York, June 11, 1817. Of this marriage there were
three children: Ida M., who is the widow of Stephen N. Campbell and resides
in Horicon ;' Eliott, deceased ; and Hattie, who was the wife of W. A. Wilcox
and died in 1909. The son married Miss Edith Boeing, of Horicon, and they
became parents of two children : Blanch, the wife of Charles Reiley, of Milwau-
kee ; and Daniel C, who is married and resides in Los Angeles, California. The
mother of these children passed away April 9, 1881, and on the 17th of October,
1883, Mr. Van Brunt was again married, wedding Martha L. Moore, who was
born at Cape Vincent, New York, and is a daughter of Robert and Almira
(Holmes) Moore. Her mother was born in New York, January 20, 1819. Her
father was a native of the north of Ireland and his mother was of Scotch birth
while his father was of Scotch-Irish origin. In 1836 he came to Green Bay,
Wisconsin, but because of the opposition of his wife and her people to a resi-
dence on the frontier he returned to the east and there engaged in farming, sub-
sequently removing to Cape Vincent, New York. In that place he lived retired
and there he educated his children. He held various local offices and was a man
of considerable local prominence. In the family of Robert Moore and his wife
were five children. John H., a veteran of the Civil war, was wounded at the
battle of Ream's Station and was an invalid thereafter, having lost his right leg
as a result of the wound. He served for fourteen years as postmaster at Cape
Vincent and died in Rome, Italy. Charlotte J., the second of the family, died
in infancy. Mrs. Van Brunt is the next younger. Mary J. is the widow of
wl n-»
132
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Martin Eichelberger and makes her home with Mrs. Van Brunt. James D.. now
deceased, was bookkeeper in a large wholesale establishment in Chicago before
the fire, after which he returned to the east.
Mr. Van Brunt held membership with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and his widow is connected with the Eastern Star chapter at Beaver Dam, her
father having been a prominent Mason, as was her brother James D. Moore.
For fifty-five years Daniel C. Van Brunt was a resident of Wisconsin. Arriving
in 1846, he here continued to reside until his death, which occurred on the 14th
of January, 1901. He was one of the-most respected and honored residents of
Horicon and Dodge county, not only owing to the success he achieved but also
to the straightforward business methods which he ever followed. His labors
indeed constituted a valuable contribution to the world's work and have been an
important element in furthering progress along agricultural lines.
William John Frederick Gcrbitz, successfully engaged in dairy farming, is
the owner of a tract of land comprising one hundred and six acres in Clyman
township. His birth occurred in Exonia township, Jefferson county, Wiscon-
sin, on the 12th of February, 1858, his parents being William and Fredericka
(Sumnicht) Gerbitz, both of whom were natives of the province of Pommern,
Germany. The father was born on the 4th of February, 1826, while the
mother's natal day was February 1, 1837. Their marriage was celebrated in
Exonia township, Jefferson county. William Gerbitz emigrated to the United
States in 1846 or 1848, while Fredericka Sumnicht crossed the Atlantic to this
country seven years later. The father of our subject located first in Lebanon
township, Dodge county, but soon afterward purchased a farm in Exonia
township, Jefferson county, this state, residing thereon until 1875. In that
year he disposed of the property and bought a tract of land in Emmet town-
ship, Dodge county, to the cultivation of which he devoted his attention until
called to his final rest in the fall of 1901. He had resided here continuously
for more than a quarter of a century and had won many friends throughout
the community, so that his death was the occasion of deep and widespread
regret. The demise of his wife occurred in the fall of 1896.
William J. F. Gerbitz, who was the third in order of birth in a family of
twelve children, obtained his education in Lebanon township, attending a Ger-
man school and receiving but little instruction in English. In the years that
have since passed, however, he has constantly augmented his knowledge by
reading, experience and observation and is now a well informed man. He re-
mained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage and continued
on his father's farm for one year following that important event in his life.
Subsequently he purchased his present place adjoining the village limits of
Clyman, ten acres of which have been cut off by the new railroad. Mr. Gerbitz
devotes his attention to dairying and his efforts in this connection have been
attended with a well merited measure of success. lie is a stockholder in the
WILLIAM JOHN FREDERICK GERBITZ.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
133
cheese factory at Clyman Station and has long been numbered among the
enterprising and progressive citizens of the community.
On the 16th of May, 1886, Mr. Gerbitz was united in marriage to Miss
Rosalina Brandt, who was born in Germany on the 18th of August, 1855, her
parents being Martin and Carolina (Bornflait) Brandt. Emigrating to the
United States in 1871, they located on a farm in Emmet township, this county,
and later removed to another farm on the North road, in the same township,
where both passed away. Martin Brandt was called to his final rest in March.
1886, while the demise of his wife occurred in May, 1885. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Gerbitz were born two children, namely : Mata, whose birth occurred on the
9th of March, 1887; and Martin, whose natal day was April 10, 1891. Both are
still at home with their father. The mother passed away on the 7th of April,
1901.
At the polls Mr. Gerbitz casts his ballot in support of the men and measures
of the democracy, believing firmly in the principles of that party. He belongs
to the German Lutheran church at Clyman and exemplifies its teachings in his
daily life. He has always lived in this part of the state and the circle of his
friends is a wide one. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which
has been accorded due recognition of labor and today he is numbered among
the substantial citizens of his community.
CHESTER WRIGHT HARVEY.
Chester Wright Harvey, who has resided in Beaver Dam for a half century,
has long been numbered among its prominent and leading citizens and for the
past twenty years has contributed in substantial measure to the success of the
Dodge County Fair in the capacity of secretary. His birth occurred in Hamil-
ton, Madison county. New York, on the 13th of August, 1849, his parents be-
ing Fay M. and Mary M. (Lewis) Harvey. In 1862 the family came west, ar-
riving in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, on the 22d of November of that year. Fay
M. Harvey was successfully engaged in business as the proprietor of a meat
market for thirty years and after his demise the establishment was conducted by
his son, Chester W., until the 1st of April, 1894. The father passed away on
the 1st of May, 1881, mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances as
well as his immediate family. His political allegiance was given to the demo-
cratic party, the men and measures of which he supported at the polls. Unto
him and his wife were born the following children: Scelletta, who is the wife
of George M. Foot; Lewellyn L. f who passed away in Chicago when fifty-nine
years of age; Rosette, the wife of Dr. S. Curtis, of Madison, New York; Edgar
M., who died when forty-five years old ; Chester Wright, of this review ; Har-
riet A., the wife of I. N. Berkeley; and Sarah Elizabeth, who is the wife of J.
S. Gibson and resides in Beaver Dam.
Chester Wright Harvey supplemented his early education, obtained in the
public schools of Morrisville, New York, by a course of study in the high school
at Beaver Dam and in private schools. When fifteen years of age he put aside
his text-books and joined his father in the meat market. In other lines of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
business activity and public endeavor his cooperation has been sought and given.
He is a director of the Old National Bank, trustee and chairman of the execu-
tive board of Wayland Academy, superintendent of Oakwood cemetery and
president of the Masonic Temple Association. For seven years he served as
chief of the fire department and for a similar period acted as president of the
Wisconsin State Firemen's Association, while for thirty years he was secre-
tary of the local hook and ladder company. Probably his most important work
has been done as secretary of the Dodge County Fair, in which capacity he has
been active in its management for twenty years, doing much to stimulate in-
terest in the exhibits and encourage the spirit of friendly rivalry. For six
years he has also been a member of the Wisconsin state board of agriculture.
On the 30th of October, 1872, Mr. Harvey was joined in wedlock to Miss
Mary M. Brown, a daughter of John P. and Laura Brown, of Newark, New
Jersey. Mrs. Mary M. Harvey is one of a family of five children, the others
being as follows : Laura A., of Beaver Dam ; Frank L.. who is a resident of
Newark, New Jersey; William G., living in Whiting, Iowa; and Edwin P.,
a resident of Beaver Dam. Mr. and Mrs. Harvey had two children, namely:
Eva, who passed away in 1905 when twenty-six years of age; and Ethel, who
died in 1885, at the age of twelve.
Mr. Harvey is a stanch democrat in politics and has served as mayor of
Beaver Dam for five terms, discharging his official prerogatives in support of
many measures of reform and improvement. During several terms' service as
a member of the school board he did much to advance the cause of education.
He belonged to the Wisconsin National Guard for one year. Fraternally he is
identified with the Masons, belonging to Dodge County Lodge, No. 72, F. &
A. M., the chapter, the commandery and the Eastern Star. His genial disposi-
tion has made for him a circle of warm friends which is almost coextensive with
the circle of his acquaintances. He possesses, moreover, those sterling traits
of character which in every land and clime win confidence, respect and good-
will, and by the consensus of public opinion he is accorded a prominent place
among the valued citizens of Dodge county.
JULIUS ROBERT SCHULTZ.
Among the younger agriculturists who have been successful in their oc-
cupation in Hubbard township is Julius Robert Schultz, a native of I.eroy town-
ship, of German descent. The father, Fred Schultz, was born in the Ucker-
mark, Germany, May 28, 1843, and came to this country in i860. At the out-
break of the Civil war he was drafted for service but, as he was at that time
not in possession of citizen's papers, could not enlist. For ten years he worked
as a farm hand in Lcroy township and during this time, by strict economy,
acquired the capital to invest in property of his own. He owned a farm in Le-
roy township but later moved to Williamstown. He was a man prominent in
the public life of the community in which he made his home and filled various
town and school offices. He was married to Louisa Schnorstein, who was born
in Williamstown, Dodge county, near Kekoskee, on June 4, 1846.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
135
Julius R. Schultz was born May 8, 1870, and was reared at home. He at-
tended the district and German schools in pursuit of an education. He was
brought up and confirmed in the faith of the Lutheran church and has ever
since been affiliated with this denomination. At the age of seventeen he began
active life by working on his father's farm for one year, becoming acquainted
with the various branches of agriculture and gaining a knowledge which has
stood him in good stead ever since. He then left the parental roof and for the
following fifteen years farmed upon rented land. At the end of that period he
bought a farm in Clark county, which he successfully cultivated for seven years.
He then traded his property for farm land in Chester township, where he re-
mained for five years. Disposing of this farm, he came to his present place in
Hubbard township, in 1909, and here he has been engaged in farming along
modern and progressive lines and has greatly improved his property. He has
remodeled the residence and other buildings, has his fields well fenced and has
installed modern and up-to-date machinery to facilitate farm labor. Beside
general farming he pays special attention to dairying and the products of his
dairy have gained a high reputation on account of the sanitary and cleanly con-
ditions which exist in his establishment. The appearance of the farm well in-
dicates the labor expended upon it and the ability Mr. Schultz possesses.
Mr. Schultz was married, February 3, 1891, to Miss Mary Gallie, who was
born in Pennsylvania. Her father, Carl Gallie, was a native of Germany, born
November 9, 1841, and came to America in the early part of 1869. The moth-
er's maiden name was Rose Krueger, and she was also a native of the father-
land and was married to Mr. Gallie there. Mr. and Mrs. Schultz are the parents
of three children: Louisa, who was born October 20, 1891, and died in infancy;
Albert, born March 2, 1896; and Carl, born December 13, 1902.
The family attend the Lutheran church and in politics Mr. Schultz is in-
dependent, preferring to support men and measures irrespective of party, as
his judgment dictates. Although he is not actively connected with political or
public matters, he takes that interest in the general welfare which any high-
minded citizen should. Along agricultural lines he has achieved a decided suc-
cess, which not only secures gratifying financial results but plays an important
part in the general agricultural development of this section. His farm is one
of the model places in Hubbard township and its appearance speaks well for
the ability of its owner. Mr. and Mrs. Schultz have by their kindly ways ac-
quired many friends and are highly esteemed by all who know them.
CARL PIEPER.
Carl Pieper, who has lived retired in Horicon since 1903, was in former
years actively and successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits in
Dodge county and still owns an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty
acres in Oak Grove township. His birth occurred in the province of Pommern,
Germany, on the 31st of December, 1855, his parents being Carl and Eliza
Pieper, who spent their entire lives in that country. He obtained his education
in the schools of the fatherland and at the early age of ten years began provid-
136
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ing for his own support. When a youth of sixteen, attracted by the favorable
reports which he had heard concerning the advantages and opportunities of
the new world, he crossed the Atlantic to the United States and came direct to
Dodge county, Wisconsin, working as a farm hand in Hustisford township for
eight years. On the expiration of that period, having accumulated sufficient
capital by dint of careful economy, Tie purchased a tract of land in Hubbard
township and was busily engaged in its cultivation for seventeen years. At the
end of that time he disposed of the property and bought a farm of one hun-
dred and twenty acres in Oak Grove township, devoting his attention to its op-
eration until the fall of 1903. At that time he purchased a home in Horicon.
where he has since lived retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil in well
earned ease. The farm of one hundred and twenty acres is still in his posses-
sion but for the past nine years he has leased the property. His record is in-
deed a creditable one, illustrating the power of industry and energy in the
attainment of success. He was unable to speak a word of English at the time
of his arrival in this country but eventually mastered the language and as the
years passed worked his way steadily upward to a position among the respected
and substantial citizens of his community.
In November, 1879, Mr. Pieper was united in marriage to Miss Amelia
Swandt, who was born in Germany in July, 1857, her parents being August and
Carrie Swandt. They emigrated to America about 1864, locating first in Oak
Grove township, this county and later in Hubbard township, where Mrs.
Swandt passed away some years afterward. August Swandt died in the home
of our subject at Horicon. Mr. and Mrs. Pieper have two children, as follows:
Helen, who is the wife of George Lehman, an agriculturist residing in Oak
Grove township; and Louis, living with his parents, who is a fireman in the
employ of the St. Paul Railroad.
Mr. Pieper is a stalwart democrat in politics but his aspirations have not
been in the line of office holding. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, belong-
ing to the church of that denomination at Horicon. The hope that led him
to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized.
He found the opportunities he sought, which, by the way, are always open
to the ambitious, energetic man, and making the best of these he has steadily
worked his way upward. He possesses the resolution, perseverance and re-
liability so characteristic of his nation, and his name is now enrolled among the
best citizens of Dodge county, where he has resided for more than four decades.
JAMES J. FREEMAN.
James J. Freeman, superintendent of the foundry of the Van firunt Manu-
facturing Company, is one of Horicon's native sons, his birth having occurred
on the 22d of August, 1865. His parents were John and Catherine (Crine)
Freeman, both of whom were born in County Sligo, Ireland, the father's natal
day being the 23d of December, 1818, and that of the mother February 6, 1824.
They were reared and married in the land of their birth, where the father
learned the tailor's trade. In the early years of their married life they came to
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
137
the United States, locating in Milwaukee, where the father worked at his
trade. Later they removed to Horicon, and here he continued to follow tail-
oring until shortly prior to his death, which occurred in 1899. He had long
survived the mother, who passed away in 1870. Our subject is the youngest of
seven children.
James J. Freeman, who was a lad of but five years when his mother passed
away, was reared at home and educated in the graded and high schools of Hori-
con. which he attended until he was a youth of thirteen years. Laying aside
his schoolbooks he then entered the Van Brunt & Davis Foundry in the capacity
of an apprentice. He continued in their service until they removed their plant
to St. Louis Park, Minnesota, in 1892, when he removed to Illinois. The suc-
ceeding five years he spent at various points in that state, subsequently going to
St. Louis Park, Minnesota. He remained there for about ten years, as an
employe of the Monitor Manufacturing Company, and then returned to Hori-
con. resuming his connection with the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company.
Mr. Freeman is thoroughly familiar with all of the details of his trade and in
addition to his skill in this direction possesses high executive power, and is
a thoroughly trustworthy and reliable man of business.
The religious faith of Mr. Freeman is manifested in his membership in the
Roman Catholic church. Ever since granted the right of franchise, upon the
attainment of his majority, he has given his unqualified support to the men and
measures of the republican party, believing that the principles of this body are
best adapted to subserve the interests of the working man. Mr. Freeman is
unmarried. He has acquired a very pleasant modern residence in which he
makes his home, and has through his thrift and diligence acquired a comfortable
competence.
JOSEPH J. NEUMAN.
Joseph J. Neuman, who is conducting a plumbing and heating establish-
ment, is one of the native sons of Beaver Dam, born in 1874. His parents,
Martin and Pauline Neuman, were natives of Germany and after coming to the
new world established their home in this city. The father is a butcher by trade
but is now living on a tract of land near the county seat.
Joseph J. Neuman was the fourth in order of birth in a family of nine chil-
dren, and after acquiring a good education in the parochial schools he began
learning the plumbing trade, thoroughly mastering the business in principle and
detail so that he was well qualified to carry on an establishment of his own
when his savings justified him in opening a store in 1897. Ten years later he
removed to his present quarters at No. 1 19 Front street, where he has a modern
establishment, doing all kinds of work in the plumbing and heating line. He
lias had important contracts awarded him in this connection and his patronage
is steadily growing.
On the 21st of November, 1900, Mr. Neuman was married to Miss Rose
Voreck, of Beaver Dam, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Voreck. Their two
children are Leonard and Mary. The parents are members of St. Peter's Catho-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
lie church and Mr. Neuman belongs to the Knights of Columbus. There have
been no exciting chapters in Mr. Neuman's life record but industry has paved
the way to success and he is now at the head of a profitable and growing busi-
EDWARD FREEMAN.
The late Edward Freeman, for many years a foreman in the Van Brunt
Manufacturing Company' at Horicon, was a native of Milwaukee, this state, his
birth occurring on the 15th of August, 1850. He was one of seven children
born to John and Catherine (Crine) Freeman. The parents were born, reared
and married in County Sligo, Ireland, the father's natal day being the 23d of
December, 1818, and that of the mother, February 6, 1824. They emigrated to
the United States in the early days of their domestic life, first settling in Mil-
waukee. There the father, who was a tailor, followed his trade until 1856,
when he removed with his family to Horicon, where he continued to engage in
tailoring until shortly prior to his death, which occurred m 1899. He had long
survived the mother, who passed away in 1870.
Edward Freeman was a child of only six years when he accompanied hts
parents on their removal to Horicon. Here he was reared, obtaining his edu-
cation in the public schools, in which he continued his studies until he was a
youth of thirteen years. He then laid aside his text-books and became an ap-
prentice in the foundry of the Van Brunt Company, with whom he remained
for three years. At the expiration of that time he obtained a position in Fond
du Lac, going from there to Milwaukee, following which he worked for a time
at various points in Illinois and Iowa. After an absence of about seven years
he returned home, obtaining a position in the Van Brunt factory. He was
shortly promoted to the place of foreman, continuing to hold this position until
his death, which occurred on the 16th of February, 191 2.
On the 21st of October, 1873, Mr. Freeman was united in marriage to Miss
Anna Kennedy, who was born in Brookfield, Waukesha county, this state,
on the 7th of August, 1851. She is a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Gardner)
Kennedy, both natives of Ireland, the father having been born in County Tip-
perary and the mother in County Limerick. They were pioneer settlers in
Waukesha county, where the father, who was a carpenter, followed his trade
until 1857. He then removed to Fond du Lac with his family, and there two
years later he passed away. After his death the mother continued to make her
home in Fond du Lac for some years, but later came to live with her daughter,
Mrs. Freeman, at whose residence she passed away in 1902. Of the four chil-
dren born to Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy, Mrs. Freeman, who is the eldest, is the
only one now living. The others were as follows : Mary, James and John. The
family of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman numbered three: Katherine, who is a teacher
in the second grade of the Horicon schools ; Edward T., a foreman in the core
room of the plow works at La Crosse, Wisconsin, who married Mary Redmond,
of De Kalb, Illinois, and has two daughters, Anna and Nellie; and William J.,
a mechanical engineer <mploycd by the state railroad commission at Madison.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
139
Mr. Freeman was a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, as is also
his widow and children. Fraternally he was affiliated with the Catholic Knights
of Wisconsin, being a charter member of the Horicon lodge. His allegiance in
matters politic he gave to the democratic party and at one time represented his
ward in the council. He was an industrious man of good principles and many
estimable qualities, who was held in high regard by his fellow townsmen, many
of whom had known him from boyhood.
HENRY RICIIARDT.
Many are the valuable citizens who have come from Germany to the United
States to help in the pioneer labor of developing the resources of this country,
and of the "many who came and have made their mark in various professions
and vocations none have been more important than those sturdy German farm-
ers who have so largely contributed to prosperity and development by their
industry, patience, thriftiness and energy. Henry Richardt was born in the
province of Pomerania, Germany, September 23, 1858, a son of John Richardt,
who was born in the same province on the 27th of November, 1823, and
Ernestina (Schleicher) Richardt, born in the same province^ December 22,
1827. John Richardt came with his family to America in 1868. After working
for two years as a farm hand he bought the property in Hubbard township,
this county, on which our subject now resides. The father cleared and im-
proved the land which he had acquired and gradually brought the same under
cultivation. He was successful in his pursuits, being ably assisted by his son
and operating the farm until 1900, when he passed away. His wife had died
two years before.
Henry Richardt received his education largely in the schools of his native
country and completed the same after arriving in the United States. He as-
sisted his father with the work on the farm and became acquainted with the
various branches of agriculture and stock-raising. He thus acquired valuable
knowledge which stood him in good stead when he began the cultivation of this
property independently. In 1900 he took charge of the farm and has operated
the same successfully ever since. He employs up-to-date and modern methods
in the cultivation of the soil and follows scientific lines in raising his stock.
He has improved and bettered the property since he has managed the same and
the result of his industry and ability as a farmer is plainly seen by its appear-
ance.
On the 28th of May, 1888, Mr. Richardt was united in marriage to Miss Al-
bertina Wersonskie, who was born in Theresa township, May 24, 1866. Her
parents, Mr. and Mrs. August Wersonskie were natives of Germany, born in
the province of Pomerania. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Richardt: Willie, February 19, 1889; Arthur, September 13, 1893; and Esther,
December 22, 1903.
The family affiliate with the Lutheran church, to which they give their
moral and material support. Mr. Richardt's political views coincide with the
democratic party and, although he has not been active in politics, he takes that
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
laudable interest in public matters which is the duty of every high-minded citi-
zen. His labors have been of benefit not only to himself but have in large meas-
ure contributed to the general agricultural development of the section in which
he resides. Mr. and Mrs. Richardt enjoy an extensive acquaintance in Hubbard
township and are accorded universal esteem.
CHRISTIAN F. WILLIAM GRIEPENTROG.
Christian F. William Griepentrog, an esteemed citizen and representative
agriculturist of Oak Grove township, is the owner of an excellent farm of one
hundred and six acres but is no longer actively engaged in its operation, having
turned over the work of the fields to his son, Otto. His birth occurred in Stet-
tin, Germany, on the 14th of October, 1853, his parents being Ernst and Fred-
erica (Tesch) Griepentrog, who were likewise natives of that place. The father
was born on the 2d of February, 1824, while the mother's natal day was March
22, 1830. Ernst Griepentrog served in the regular army of his native land and
worked for others during his active business career. His demise occurred in
the city of Berlin in November, 1862. In August of the following year his widow
emigrated to the United States with her three children, coming direct to Dodge
county, Wisconsin, and locating in Theresa township. She was married a second
time, becoming the wife of Charles Buchda, who owned a farm in Theresa
township and operated the same until he retired and removed to Juneau, where
his demise occurred about 1894. His widow now makes her home with our
subject.
C. F. W. Griepentrog, who was a lad of ten years when he came to this
country with his widowed mother, attended the district schools of Theresa town-
ship and also pursued a course of study in a German parochial school of that
township. When a youth of seventeen he secured employment as a farm hand
and thus worked for eight years. On the expiration of that period, having care-
fully saved his earnings, he purchased sixty-six acres of land on section 34, Oak
Grove township, and started out as an agriculturist on his own account. He has
since extended the boundaries of his farm by additional purchase and it now
embraces one hundred and six acres of valuable and productive land. He erected
all of the buildings which stand upon the property and added all of the improve-
ments and conveniences of a model farm. For a number of years he devoted
his time and energies to its operation but is now living retired and leases the
place to his son, Otto, who performs the work of the fields. He served as sec-
retary of the Oak Grove Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company for twelve
years, and is president of the Essman cheese factory, located near his home.
On the 10th of October, 1878, Mr. Griepentrog was united in marriage to
Miss Minnie Schuenka, who was born in Herman township, this county, on the
19th of February, 1853, her parents being Mr. and Mrs. Carl Schuenka, natives
of the province of Pommern, Germany. They emigrated to the United States
about 1846, locating in Herman township, this county, where Mr. Schuenka was
killed about 1854, while clearing the logs from a homestead. His widow remained
in Herman township for a number of years, then sold the home farm and re-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
141
moved to Burnett township, where she passed away some years later. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Griepentrog have been born nine children, as follows: Emma, whose
birth occurred on the 5th of July, 1879, an d who is the wife of Frank Zieroth,
a farmer residing in Barron county, Wiscorisin; Charles, born July 6, 1880, who
is a mason living at Benson, Nebraska ; Emil, Ludwig, Ferdinand and Amanda,
all of whom are deceased; Otto, whose birth occurred on the 12th of September,
1889, and who resides on the old homestead ; William, whose natal day was Jan-
uary 3, 1892, and who lives in Herman township; and Ida, who was born Feb-
ruary 6, 1894, and is still under the parental roof.
Mr. Griepentrog is a democrat in politics and has served on the school board
for three or four terms, while at the present time he is acting as treasurer of the
district school board. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in St.
John's Lutheran church at Juneau. He has continuously resided within the
borders of Dodge county since coming here about a half century ago. Faithful
at all times to the duties devolving upon him and strong in his advocacy of all
measures which tend toward the material, intellectual and moral development
of the community, he has, by his own upright life and manly principles, gained
the admiration and respect of all who know him and his circle of warm friends
is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.
HERMAN SCHWANTES.
Actively engaged in agricultural pursuits on a 'well developed farm in Oak
Grove township Herman Schwantes has won success in the line which he has
chosen as his life work, for his efforts have at all times been characterized by a
spirit of progress and by indefatigable energy and intelligently applied labor.
His birth occurred in the province of Pommern, Germany, on the 4th of May,
1868, his parents being August and Amelia (Schultz) Schwantes, of whom more
extended mention is made on other pages of this work in connection with the
sketches of Henry VV. and Albert Schwantes, brothers of our subject. In early
life Herman Schwantes was brought by his parents to the United States, the
family home being established in Dodge county, Wisconsin. In the acquirement
of an education he attended a German school in Hustisford township and for
two months studied in a district school near Hartford. When a youth of fifteen
he began working as a farm hand, being thus employed until twenty-five years
of age. At that time he rented a tract of land in Hustisford township, being
busily engaged in its cultivation for six years, while subsequently he operated
a rented farm in Oak Grove township for a similar period. He then pur-
chased a farm of eighty-nine acres on section 27, Oak Grove township, and has
since devoted his time and attention to its further development and improve-
ment, bringing the fields under a high state of cultivation. He has erected mod-
ern and substantial buildings and has equipped his place with all accessories
necessary for facilitating farm labor, everything about it indicating that he has
kept in touch with the spirit of progress which is manifested in agricultural
lines. Mr. Schwantes makes a specialty of breeding Holstein cattle for a select
market and ships them to all parts of the country. He is a stockholder in the
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Essman cheese factory, which is located near his farm, one mile south of the
city limits of Juneau.
On the 5th of October, 1893, Mr. Schwantes was joined in wedlock to Miss
Minnie Reichow, who was born in Hustisford township, this county, on the 17th
of February, 1873, her parents being Frederich and Henrietta Reichow, na-
tives of Germany. They emigrated to the United States at an early day and
settled first in Oak Grove township, Dodge county, while about two years later
they removed to Hustisford, where Mr. Reichow passed away October 8,
1897. His widow, who still survives, makes her home in the town of Hustis-
ford. Frederich Reichow had served in the regular army while in Germany.
Mrs. Schwantes is the youngest of six children born to her parents, and by her
marriage has become the mother of six children, as follows: Edwin, whose
birth occurred on the 23d of February, 1895 ; Hilbert, whose natal day was July
11, 1B98; Cora, who was born October 20, 1900; Elmer, whose birth occurred on
the 13th of June, 1903; Renata, born August 26, 1906; and Dorothy, born No-
vember 11, 1909
In politics Mr. Schwantes is a democrat but his aspirations have not been
in the line of office holding. He is a devoted member of the Lutheran church
at Juneau and exemplifies its teachings in his daily conduct. That his life has at
all times commanded the high respect which is uniformly tendered him is indi-
cated in the fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known
him from his boybood to the present time.
August H. Seifert, who is known as one of the most progressive and suc-
cessful agriculturists of Oak Grove township, owns an excellent farm of eighty
acres on section 14. His birth occurred in Hustisford township, Dodge county,
on the 14th of April, 1877, his parents being August and Augusta (Berge-
man) Seifert, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father was born
on the 22d of June, 1834, while the mother's natal day was September 1, 1843.
Their marriage was celebrated in Hustisford township, this county. August
Seifert accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States when
about fifteen years of age, the family coming direct to Dodge county, Wiscon-
sin, and locating on a farm in Hustisford township. In that township he grew
to manhood and became a landowner, continuing to reside there until 1884,
when he purchased and located on a farm two miles northeast of Juneau, which
is now in possession of our subject and where he passed away on the 17th of
January, 191 1. His surviving widow now lives with her son Julius on an adjoin-
ing farm. Mr. Seifert, who enlisted in the Union army in 1861, served with a
Wisconsin regiment for three years and four months and was fortunate in that
he was never wounded. He held various local offices and was widely recognized
as an influential and esteemed citizen of the county, within the borders of which
he resided for about six decades.
In the acquirement of an education August H. Seifert attended a German
school at Juneau and the district schools of Oak Grove township. He remained
AUGUST H. SEIFERT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
143
under the parental roof until thirty years of age and then became the owner
of the farm on which he now resides and which at that time embraced one hun-
dred acres. Recently, however, he sold twenty acres of the tract. His farm
is one of the best equipped in Oak Grove township, the buildings thereon being
modern and comparatively new. He devotes his attention to general farming
and has met with success in his undertakings, annually gathering rich harvests
which find a ready sale on the market. He is likewise a stockholder in the
cheese factory at Juneau.
On the 6th of June, 1906, Mr. Seifert was united in marriage to Miss Emma
Horn, who was born in Herman township, this county, on the 23d of November,
1879, her parents being Charles and Wilhelmina (Bellack) Horn, both natives
of Germany. The father's natal day was July 3, 1840, while the mother's birth
occurred on the 20th of March, 1847. They reside in Woodland, Dodge county,
where for twenty-seven years Mr. Horn was engaged in the lumber business.
In his political views Mr. Seifert is a republican, loyally supporting the men
and measures of that party but never seeking office as a reward for his fealty.
In religious faith he is a Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination
at Juneau. Both he and his wife have always lived in this county and well
merit the regard and esteem which is uniformly accorded them.
ALBERT ALPHONSE BERTEL.
Albert Alphonse Bertel, who devotes his attention to the pursuits of gen-
eral farming and stock-raising, is the owner of eighty-eight acres of land on
section 15, Oak Grove township. His birth occurred in Alsace, France, on the
10th of November, 185 1, his parents being John and Mary Bertel, who spent
their entire lives in that country. The father followed farming throughout his
active business career.
Albert A. Bertel obtained his education in the schools of his native land
and when a youth of nineteen crossed the Atlantic to the United States, first
working as a blacksmith in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and later being employed
in locomotive works for about two years. In 1875 ne came to Reeseville, Dodge
county, Wisconsin, and secured employment on a farm near Lowell, working
for others until the time of his marriage. Following that important event in his
life he rented a farm in Clyman township and devoted his attention to its op-
eration for three years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Oak
Grove township and purchased a farm south of Juneau, where he continued to
reside for fourteen years. After disposing of the property he spent three years
on a farm north of Juneau, then sold the place and bought a tract of eighty-
eight acres inside the city limits, which he has cultivated to the present time.
In connection with the production of cereals he devotes considerable attention
to stock-raising and in both branches of his business has won success. He is
likewise a stockholder in the Juneau Cheese & Butter Company and well de-
serves recognition among the substantial and respected citizens of the com-
munity.
On the 3d of February, 1880. Mr. Bertel was joined in wedlock to Miss
144
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mary Neis, who was born in Clyman township, Dodge county, on the 20th of
January, 1863, her parents being Jacob and Elizabeth (Spohn) Neis, also na-
tives of this county. Her father was engaged in business as a blacksmith of
Clyman for a number of years and subsequently took up his abode in Ham-
mond, Indiana, where his demise occurred in February, 1912. His first wife
passed away some years ago. He later married Miss Helen Einsle and fol-
lowing her death he was again married and is survived by his third wife. Jacob
Neis was the father of fourteen children. To Mr. and Mrs. Bertel have been
born eight children, as follows: George and Ella, both at home; Peter and an
infant daughter, who are deceased; and Thomas, James, Clara and Albert, who
are also yet under the parental roof.
In politics Mr. Bertel is a democrat and for two terms he has served as
township treasurer, making a creditable record in that capacity. He is a de-
vout communicant of the Roman Catholic church and has been identified with
the Catholic Knights since 1890. He has been a resident of this county for
thirty-seven years and is well known within its borders, while the circle of his
friends is a wide one.
Thomas J. Herrick, one of the well known and highly respected citizens
of Oak Grove township, has resided continuously, for more than half a century,
on an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 12, formerly
owned by his father-in-law, James Anderson. Mr. Herrick's birth occurred at
Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania, on the 23d of November, 1829, his parents being
Job and Hannah (Cummings) Herrick. The father was born at Plainfield,
Connecticut, in 1776, while the mother was a native of Bennington, Vermont.
Job Herrick became one of the early merchants of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania,
and for a number of years was engaged in business there. For some years
prior to his demise, which occurred in 1853, he lived on a farm near Lawrence-
ville. Unto him and his wife were born twelve children, only two of whom sur-
vive, the sister of our subject, Mrs. Jeancttc Smith, being a resident of Spo-
kane, Washington.
Thomas J. Herrick obtained his education in his native town and when about
fifteen years of age started out in life as an agriculturist on his own account
and with the assistance of other members of the family paid off a mortgage on
the home farm. It was in 1854 that he came to Wisconsin, locating first at
Waukesha, where he worked as a molder for two years. On the expiration of
that period he took up his abode in Horicon, Dodge county, being the very first
representative of that line of work here. He was engaged in business in part-
nership with William M. Jones, under the firm style of Jones & Herrick, for two
and a half years. At the end of that time he sold out and took up his abode on
the farm of one hundred and twenty acres which has remained his home con-
tinuously since. He has brought the fields under a high state of cultivation,
and all of the improvements on the property stand as monuments to his thrift
and enterprise. In his undertakings as an agriculturist he has won a gratifying
THOMAS J. HERRICK.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
145
measure of success and he has long been numbered among the substantial and
esteemed citizens of the community.
On the 4th of December, 1858, Mr. Herrick was married to Miss Marion
J. Anderson, who was born in Lorain county, Ohio, October 20, 1837,
her parents being James and Amanda (Norton) Anderson, natives of Vermont
and Connecticut respectively. James Anderson, an agriculturist by occupation,
removed from Vermont to Ohio, thence came to Wisconsin and joined the earliest
settlers of Dodge county in 1843, taking up his abode on the farm which is now
in possession of our subject and on which he and his wife spent the remainder
of their lives. He served in the War of 1812 and for a number of years held
the office of justice of the peace in Oak Grove township and an elder of the Pres-
byterian church at Horicon, and also a charter member of the same. He passed
away at the age of ninety-six years, while his wife was called to her final rest
when ninety-eight years old. To Mr. and Mrs. Herrick were born five children,
two of whom still survive, namely: Ralph, who is a farmer living near Eau
Claire, Wisconsin ; and Albert, who resides with his father. Albert Herrick is
a skilled musician, having studied under Professor Richard Hardege of Water-
town, following which he took a two and one-half years' course under Ceaser
Thomson at Brussels, Belgium. Mrs. Herrick passed away in September, 1905.
At the polls Mr. Herrick has ever supported the men and measures of the
republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good govern-
ment. He has served as a member of the township board for two terms but
his aspirations have not been in the line of office holding. Fraternally he is
identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He has now passed the
eighty- third milestone on life's journey and enjoys the veneration and respect
which should ever be accorded one who has traveled thus far on this earthly
pilgrimage and whose career has been at all times upright and honorable.
LAWRENCE N. FLANNIGAN.
Lawrence N. Flannigan, well known as a representative of the banking
interests of Beaver Dam, being president of the Farmers State Bank and also
interested extensively in land and mining, was born in the town of Mitchell,
Wisconsin, in February, 1856, a son of William and Margaret (Sheridan) Flan-
nigan, the former a farmer in comfortable circumstances. The father of Mrs.
Flannigan and the father of General Phil Sheridan were own cousins, the an-
cestors of each coming from Ireland.
Lawrence N. Flannigan acquired his education in the public schools and at
the age of sixteen left his father's home, going into the lumber woods, where he
established a logging business on his own account. With the energy and ambition
peculiar to a bright young man, he made rapid progress and from the outset
of his business career has gradually worked his way upward. He possessed the
faculty of recognizing and utilizing opportunities, seeing what enterprises gave
promise of success, and possessed also the courage and promptness to make
each hour count for the utmost, combined with determination and perseverance
to carry forward his plans to a successful conclusion. As the years have passed
146
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
he has made use of opportunity for profitable investment and is now the owner
of valuable pine lands in Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Arkansas. He
is also interested in valuable mining properties in Michigan and Colorado. His
holdings include a large stock farm in Minnesota, where he raises some of the
finest stock to be found in that state. At one time he was the owner of the
Spring Brook Farm near Burnett, Wisconsin, and occupied it for eight years but
six years ago disposed of that property and removed to Beaver Dam. Here he
figures prominently in financial circles as the first president of the Farmers State
Bank, which was established in 191 1. As an investor he had previously dis-
played keen discrimination and sound judgment and these qualities have been
manifest as well in the control of the bank of which he is now the head.
In September, 1888, Mr. Flannigan was married to Miss Lucy Good, a daugh-
ter of George Good, of Oconto. Wisconsin, and they now have two daughters,
Marian and Helen Mildred, both of whom were educated in Prairie du Chien,
Wisconsin. Marian was graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1908 and
completed a course in the State Normal School at Oshkosh in 1910, since which
time she has been engaged in teaching. She expects, however, to continue her
studies at the University of Wisconsin. Helen is a graduate of St. Mary's
Academy, 1910, and of the Oshkosh Normal School with the class of 191?.
The religious faith of Mr. Flannigan is that of the Catholic church, while
his wife is a member of the Episcopal church. He holds membership with the
Catholic Knights and also with the Knights of Pythias. His political support
has usually been given to the democratic party but in 1896 he supported the
gold wing of the party, voting for Palmer for president. He has never been
ambitious for office, refusing to accept honors of that kind, preferring always
to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs, which have ever been of
an extensive and important character, constituting the basis of his present well
earned success and prosperity. He has the high regard and confidence of his
colleagues and contemporaries in the business world and has made a most credit-
able record since starting out in the lumber woods for himself when a youth
of sixteen years.
MICHAEL E. BURKE.
Political success requires for its accomplishment more than ordinary ability.
It is dependent upon many outside elements and is intimately connected with
the standards and conditions of the times. Consequently, the men who have the
ability to judge correctly and estimate the popular sentiment and to comprehend
the ideals and ambitions of the people have the most solid foundation for promi-
nence in politics. To make this prominence lasting, however, they must com-
bine with their good judgment definite work and attainment, integrity of character,
sincerity of purpose and a public spirit which is never self-seeking. Michael E.
Hurke, attorney at law in Beaver Dam and one of the greatest individual forces
in the political life of Wisconsin, is a man of this class, an active worker in the
general interests, broad-minded, able and shrewdly efficient, and he has in con-
sequence been rewarded by many important offices within the gift of the people
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
149
of his state. He has served as state representative, state senator and United
States congressman, and during the many years of his public life no trust
reposed in him has ever been neglected or betrayed. He was born in the city
in which he now resides October 15, 1863, and is a son of Michael and Ellen
(Foley) Burke, natives of Ireland. His father was born in County Tipperary
in 1805 and came to America in 1857, settling in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. After
his rr.arri.-ige, which occurred in 1861, he moved upon a farm east of the city,
near Drakes Mill, or Crystal Lake, and this he developed and improved until
his death, in October, 1892. His wife had long preceded him, for she died in
March, 1868. To their union were born two children: Mary, whose birth
occurred in 1865 and who married David Candell, of Eau Claire ; and Michael
F.., of this review.
The last named received his primary education in the district schools of
Beaver Dam township and supplemented this by a course in Wayland Academy.
After he was graduated from this institution he entered the offices of Judge
Fdwarc! Elwell in Beaver Dam and studied law. He completed his legal course
in the State University at Madison and was admitted to the bar of Wisconsin
February 14, 1888. For a short time he taught in the district schools but finally
located in the city, where he has practiced for twenty-four years. His unusual
success is the best proof of his ability. He has beeh retained in connection with
most of the important litigation in the courts of the district and has conserved
the interests of his clients in a forceful and able way. He is recognized as a
strong and capable practitioner, with a mind in which keen logic and acute dis-
crimination unite with power and resourcefulness in the coordination of details,
and his practice has expanded rapidly in proportion to his growing accomplish-
ments.
As is often the case, Mr. Burke's legal success has carried with it prominence
in politics and his public duties have grown to be one of the important interests
of his life. His political career began in Beaver Dam when he was elected town
clerk and served with ability and conscientiousness for two terms. In the state
legislature he became connected with many of the most important committees
and in the session of 1891 he served as chairman of the committee on legislative
expenditures and in the session of 1893 was chairman of the assembly com-
mittee on judiciary, and thus he extended his usefulness to his constituents by
enlarging the field of his activity. His record in office was so fine an example
of true political accomplishment that in 1894 he was elected to the state senate
and served for four years in that body. Here also he continued active in the
very center of state government, serving on the committees on roads and bridges
and on town and county organizations. In 1893 he had been elected city attorney
of Eeaver Dam and for fifteen consecutive annual terms has been returned to
that offke. his long service being the most complete proof of his ability. He
has twice served as mayor of Beaver Dam. Gradually by earnest, straight-
forward and forceful work Mr. Burke has become identified with more important
political affairs, for while serving his second term as mayor he was elected a
member of the sixty-second United States congress on the democratic ticket
from the sixth congressional district of Wisconsin. He served as a member of
the committees on merchant marine and fisheries and invalid pensions, and in
November, 191 2, was reelected over his republican opponent by a majority of
five thousand, nine hundred and sixty-seven.
Vol. 1I-B
150
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. Burke married, on February 28, 1898, Miss Emma Sontag, a daughter
of William Sontag, of Winneconne, Wisconsin, and both are well known in
social circles of Beaver Dam. In his law practice Mr. Burke is the senior mem-
ber of the firm of Burke & Lueck and has gained prosperity and distinction in
this field. He is one of the most prominent men in the public life of the city at
the present time. For over twenty years his activities have been individual forces
in the establishment and development of political standards and in the growth
and progress of Wisconsin along political lines. He has reached the point in
his career where politics have become statesmanship, for his remarkable talents
have always been exerted for the public welfare without regard to personal ends.
Julius C Fischer is residing on ninety-six acres of land near Juneau and gives
his entire time to general farming. He was born in Ixonia, Jefferson county,
September 2, 1859, a son of Fred and Minnie (Groth) Fischer. His father was
born in Germany and came to America about 1855, settling in Milwaukee, where
he remained only a short time. Later he went to Ixonia and purchased a farm
which he improved and operated until about the year 1875, when he disposed
of his holdings and purchased land near LeRoy upon which he resided for some
time. Eventually he retired from active life and moved to Milwaukee, where
he died January 21, 1912. His wife passed away at LeRoy, February 3, 1886.
Julius Fischer is the oldest of a family of ten children. He attended the
public schools at LeRoy and remained at home until he was twenty-one years
of age. At that time he obtained employment and for two years worked out
upon neighboring farms. At the end of that time in association with his father
he operated the home farm and remained upon it for five years. He then bought
eighty acres of land in Jefferson county near LeRoy and operated and improved
it for twelve years. Disposing of this property he went to Ixonia, where for
two years he engaged in carpenter work. He moved to Milwaukee at the end
of that time and after a short period in the same line of occupation he pur-
chased the farm upon which he now resides. The land is in excellent condition,
well improved and intelligently developed, and its owner has won recognition
as an able and successful farmer.
Mr. Fischer has been twice married. On May 7, 1885, he wedded Miss
Anna Krug, who was born in Germany, March 17, 1862, a daughter of August
and Minnie Krug, natives of the fatherland. They came to America in their
early years and settled in Williamstown township, where the father carried on
farming for some time. He later moved to Oconomowoc, where he died. His
wife passed away some years previously in Williamstown township. Mr. Fisch-
er's first wife died on the 19th of October, 1903, leaving one son, Alfred, who
was born June 21, 1886, and resides with his father. On January t, 1906, Mr.
Fischer married Miss Anna Puis, who was born in Manitowoc, January 21,
1879, a daughter of Fred and Mary (Fraizen) Puis, the former a native of
Germany and the latter of Manitowoc. Fred Puis came to America with his
JULIUS C. FISCHER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
151
parents when he was nine years of age and settled in Manitowoc where he grew
to manhood. He served in the Civil war, as a member of a Wisconsin regiment
and was wounded in the battle of Gettysburg. After his discharge he returned
to Manitowoc and gradually became an extensive land owner. Upon his retire-
ment he moved to Milwaukee where he died April 5, 1908. His wife is residing
in that city.
Mr. Fischer gives his allegiance to the republican party but has never sought
political office, preferring to give his entire time to the management of his farm,
which is evidence of his success.
AUGUST C. ERDMANN.
August C. Erdmann, a representative and successful agriculturist of Oak
Grove township, is the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land on section
14, comprising one of the best improved farms in the township. His birth
occurred in Herman township, this county, on the 5th of February, 1873, his
parents being Ferdinand and Christina (Knospe) Erdmann, both of whom are
natives of Germany. The father was born in the province of Pommern on the
4th of February, 1845, while the mother's birth occurred at Oderbruch on the
23d of December, 1848. In 1857 Ferdinand Erdmann accompanied his parents
on their emigration to the new world, the family home being established on a
farm in Herman township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and here he grew to man-
hood. He became an agriculturist and extensive landowner and continued to
reside in Herman township until 1 901, when he turned his holdings over to his
sons and went to live with our subject. The period of his residence in this county
covers fifty-five years and he enjoys a wide and favorable acquaintance within
its borders. For the past eleven years he and his wife have lived with their son
August. They were the parents of six children, four of whom still survive,
as follows: Emil, who follows farming in Herman township; August C. of this
review; Charles, an agriculturist of Rubicon township; and Henrietta, the wife
of August Gentz, who follows farming in Herman township.
August C. Erdmann obtained his education in the schools of his native town-
ship and when not busy with his text-books assisted his father in the work of
the home farm, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that
fall to the lot of the agriculturist. When twenty-three years of age he bought
land in Herman township and there carried on his farming interests until 1901,
when he sold out and purchased the tract of one hundred and sixty acres in
Oak Grove township on which he now resides. He has erected modern build-
ings and has made other substantial improvements on the property, which is
now one of the best equipped farms in the township. In connection with the
cultivation of cereals he makes a specialty of the breeding of Holstein stock
for dairy purposes. He is likewise a stockholder in the Chicago Universal Sup-
ply Company and the Cooperative Mercantile Association at Juneau.
On the 15th of August, 1901, Mr. Erdmann was united in marriage to Miss
Alma Dowe, who was born in Hubbard township, this county, on the 9th of
January, 1881, her parents being Ernst and Mary (Plageman) Dowe. The
152
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
father's birth occurred in Oderbruch, Germany, September 19, 1841, while the
mother was born in the province of Bromoborg, Germany, January 7, 1846, and
came to the United States in 1847 w ' tn her parents, who settled at Iron Ridge.
Ernst Dowe emigrated to the United States about 1856, locating first near May-
ville, Wisconsin. Subsequently he took up his abode in Hubbard township, this
county, and at the present time is living retired at Iron Ridge. He served as a
member of Company K, Fifty-first Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry during the
Civil war, enlisting in 1865, and he now receives a pension. Mr. and Mrs. Dowe
were the parents of five children : Ernst, who lives at Beaver Dam ; Lizzie, the
wife of Herman Schultz, of Beaver Dam; Edward, of Horicon; Frank of
Chicago, Illinois; and Mrs. Erdmann. Mr. and Mrs. Erdmann have one child,
Alice Mafalda, whose natal day was August 15, 1903.
In his political views Mr. Erdmann is independent, supporting men and
measures rather than party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership
in the German Reformed church at Juneau. Both he and his wife have spent
their entire lives in Dodge county and have gained an extensive circle of friends
here.
For thirty-five years Richard E. Thomas conducted a blacksmith shop in
Beaver Dam, founding a well deserved success in business upon the firm basis of
honor and good faith. For four years after disposing of this enterprise to his
son he farmed in the vicinity of the city and was prosperous in this occupation
also. He has now abandoned active life and is living retired at No. 304 Haskel
street. He has lived in Beaver Dam since he was twenty-four years of age,
coming here from his native city of Benson, Vermont, where he was born on the
24th of December, 1832. His parents were John H. and Sarah (Taylor)
Thomas, natives of Vermont. Their marriage occurred in that state and both
died there.
Richard E. Thomas was educated in the public schools of Benson and learned
the blacksmith's trade. In May, 1856, he came to Wisconsin where he worked
as a journeyman blacksmith for one summer. At the end of that time he was
able to establish himself in business, founding at this time an enterprise which
was increasingly successful for thirty-five years. He was an expert in the
details of his trade and honest, straightforward and upright in his commercial
dealings and was consequently prosperous. When he abandoned blacksmithing
he gave the management of his enterprise into the hands of his son who is now
carrying it on along the modern and progressive standards established by his
father. Mr. Thomas farmed for a short time after he retired from business
life and was successful as general agriculturist until 1908 when he disposed of
his property and has since been living retired.
In 1854 the subject of this review was united in marriage to Miss Julia
Drake, a daughter of Julius and Sarah (Tomlinson) Drake. She was the eighth
in a family of nine children and was born February 23, 1837. To Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas have been born three children: George H., who is married and living
RICHARD E. THOMAS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
153
in Beaver Dam, where he is now carrying on the business which his father
established ; Francis, who died at the age of thirty-five ; and Jennie, who passed
away when she was three and one-half years old.
In his political beliefs Mr. Thomas is consistently republican, and while he
never seeks public office he has been many times called upon to serve his fellow
citizens. He has been marshal of the city for eighteen years although he has
not served consecutively. For two years he was deputy sheriff and did able
work as deputy United States marshal for one year. He is a prominent Mason,
holding membership in the chapter and commandery. He served two terms as
master and one term as high priest and is well known in the affairs of the local
organization. He owns his residence in Beaver Dam and other residence prop-
erty and is also interested in town lots. He is a stockholder in the old National
Bank and interested in all kinds of local enterprises. For many years he was
one of the progressive and representative business men of Beaver Dam, active
in promoting his own success but at the same time mindful of his obligations as
a citizen. He made the enterprises in which he engaged successful by seizing
any favorable opportunity for advancement and by adhering faithfully to high
standards of commercial honor. He has well earned the rest he is now enjoying.
GEORGE EDWARD LESLIE.
George Edward Leslie, an agriculturist residing on section 22, Oak Grove
township, is one of the worthy native sons of Dodge county, his birth having
occurred in Ashippun township on the 20th of March, 1858. His parents were
John and Emma (Webster) Leslie, the former a native of Scotland and the
latter of England. In 1844 John Leslie emigrated to the United States with
his parents, the family home being established on a farm in Ashippun township,
this county, where he grew to manhood and became a landowner. He likewise
became identified with milling interests, owning and operating a sawmill and
later a gristmill in Ashippun township. Subsequently he was elected sheriff
of Dodge county and took up his abode in Juneau. He next purchased a farm
in Oak Grove township, just east of Juneau, and continued to reside thereon
until called to his final rest in 1898, having survived his wife for several years.
During his residence here he served as chairman of Ashippun township and also
of Oak Grove township; was secretary of the Oak Grove Farmers Mutual In-
surance Company for several years; and acted as salesman for the Oak Grove
Union cheese factory. He was a member of the Wisconsin assembly in 1885
and 1886. The period of his residence in this county covered more than a half
century and in his passing the community lost one of its most respected, influ-
ential and esteemed citizens. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Leslie were born eight
children, as follows: Robert, who is an employe in the Fuller & Johnson plant
at Madison; George Edward, of this review; Sarah, who is the wife of J. A.
Peffer, a carpenter of Waukesha; Anna, who gave her hand in marriage to
Herman Schwensow, an agriculturist of Oak Grove township; Linnie, who is
deceased; Agnes, who lives with her brother George; Emma, who is the wife
154
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of Gustave Weiss, a farmer residing at Rosendale; and John, who is employed
as bookkeeper by the Payne Lumber Company of Oshkosh.
George Edward Leslie obtained his early education in the schools of Aship-
pun township and later continued his studies in Juneau for one year. He was
reared to manhood on the home farm and when twenty-six years of age began
operating the same in association with his father, whom he assisted in the work
of the fields until the latter's death. A number of years afterward he disposed
of the property and bought his present home place of five acres a half mile
east of Juneau. In his undertakings as an agriculturist he has won a gratifying
and well merited measure of success and has long been numbered among the
substantial and representative citizens of his native county. He gives his politi-
cal allegiance to the democracy but has never sought nor desired office as a reward
for his party fealty. Fraternally he is identified with the Woodmen at Juneau.
He has spent his entire life in this county, and that his career has ever been an
upright and honorable one is indicated in the fact that the associates of his boy-
hood and youth are still numbered among his stanch friends and admirers.
WILLIAM II EC KM AN.
William Heckman, busily engaged in general farming, is assisting his son
on the farm of ninety-four acres on section 13, Oak Grove township, which he
formerly owned. His birth occurred in Germany on the 19th of September,
185 1, his parents being Gotlieb and Paulina (Hiltzberg) Heckman, both of whom
were born near Berlin, Germany, the former in 1825. and the latter on the 7th
of May, 1827. They emigrated to the United States in 1852, coming direct to
Dodge county, Wisconsin, and settling near Watertown, in Lebanon township,
where they continued to reside until 1863. In that year Mr. Heckman pur-
chased a farm of sixty acres near Mayville and thereon spent the remainder of
his life, passing away about 1871.
William Heckman, the first born in a family of ten children, obtained his
education in the schools of Mayville. When fourteen years of age he began
working for others at threshing and farming, thus early gaining practical knowl-
edge of the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for crops. After attain-
ing Ins majority he rented a farm in Leroy township, devoting his attention to
its operation for five years. During the following seven years he rented and
cultivated other land and on the expiration of that period purchased a tract of
fifty acres a mile and a half northeast of Mayville. At the end of ten years he
disposed of the property and bought a farm of ninety-four acres in Oak Grove
township, the operation of which has claimed his attention continuously since.
In connection with the cultivation of cereals best adapted to soil and climate he
raises sufficient stock for his own use, and his efforts in both branches of busi-
ness have been attended with success. He also operates a threshing outfit for
another man, having been engaged in this line of work since a youth of fifteen
years.
On the 5th of December, 1873, Mr. Heckman was united in marriage to
Miss Molly Friezie, who was born in Germany on the 26th of September. 185^,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
155
her parents being Carl and Mary (Doering) Friezie. They crossed the Atlantic
to the United States in 1854 and first located in Theresa township, this county.
After selling their property there, they removed to Lomira township, where
they spent the remainder of their lives. Our subject and his wife have two
children, namely: Emil, who is a teamster residing in Horicon; and Edward,
who in March, 191 1, purchased his father's farm which he now operates. Mr.
and Mrs. Heckman also have an adopted daughter, Bessie.
Mr. Heckman is a stalwart democrat in politics and has served in the capacity
of school clerk for four terms. His religious faith is indicated by his member-
ship in the Lutheran church at Horicon. Practically his entire life has been
spent in Dodge county and he has long been numbered among its substantial
agriculturists as well as representative and esteemed citizens.
OTTO HENRY RASSMAN.
Otto Henry Rassman. one of the younger agriculturists of Dodge county, is
meeting with excellent success in his undertakings', devoting his attention to the
operation of a farm of ninety acres in Hubbard township and giving his time
and energies principally to dairying. He also owns another farm of one hun-
dred and forty acres in the same locality but leases the property. His birth
occurred in this county on the 25th of November, 1885, his parents being Fred
and Louisa (Ihde) Rassman, natives of Germany. The father, whose natal
year was 1850, emigrated to the United States when a youth of eighteen and
here worked as a farm hand for some time. Carefully saving his earnings, he
was later enabled to buy land of his own and subsequently came into possession
of several farms. In 1907 he sold the place to his son Otto. During the long
period of his residence in Dodge county he has gained an extensive and fa-
vorable acquaintance within its borders. He and his wife now live at Juneau,
where they have resided eight years.
Otto H. Rassman supplemented his preliminary education by a course of
study in the high school at Horicon and also attended a German school. He
assisted in the work of the home farm until he was married, at the age of
twenty-two years, and then purchased the property from his father, having
operated the same on his own account continuously since. The place com-
prises ninety acres of land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation.
Mr. Rassman has a good herd of cattle and devotes his attention principally
to dairying, this branch of his business returning to him a gratifying income.
In 191 1 he built a new residence and he has also made many other substantial
improvements which enhance the value and attractiveness of his farm.
In 1907, in Hubbard township, Mr. Rassman was united in marriage to
Miss Alma Swinge, who was born on the 14th of March, 1885, Her father,
Frank Swinge, whose birth occurred in Germany on the 10th of November,
1853. was brought to this country as a baby. He was twice married, his first
wife bearing the maiden name of Minnie AfTerman. Mr. and Mrs. Rassman
now have three children, namely: Delia, who was born on the 20th of June.
1000: Hugo, whose birth occurred on the 25th of March. 1910; and Arnold.
156
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
whose natal day was May 17, 191 1. Politically Mr. Rassman is a democrat,
while his religious faith is that of the Lutheran church. He has gained a
creditable measure of prosperity for one of his years and is held in high re-
gard and esteem in the county where he has always made his home.
John L. Miltgen, a well known and highly esteemed resident of Beaver
Dam, has served in the capacity of justice of the peace for the past eleven
years. His birth occurred in Paris, France, on the 19th of June, 1841, his
parents being John and Magdalena Miltgen. In 1857 the family emigrated
to the United States, locating in West Bend, Washington county, Wisconsin,
where they resided until 1861. In that year they took up their abode at
Theresa, Dodge county, where both Mr. and Mrs. Miltgen spent the remainder
of their lives, the former passing away in April, 1892, and the latter in Decem-
ber, 1883. Both lived to attain the age of eighty-two years. John Miltgen,
Sr., was a cabinet-maker by 'trade and worked at that occupation throughout
his active business career.
John L. Miltgen, whose name introduces this review, attended school at
West Bend, Wisconsin, until twenty years of age and then turned his atten-
tion to the millwright's trade. He came to Beaver Dam in 1863 and worked
as a millwright until 1876. In that year he opened a saloon and boarding house,
conducting the same for three years. In 1879 he took up his abode in West-
ford and there conducted a store and saloon for four years. In 1883 he re-
moved to Fall River. Columbia county, there residing until October, 1886,
when he returned to Beaver Dam. Here he worked in the employ of the J.
S. Rowell Manufacturing Company and the Malleable Iron Company for a
number of years. Subsequently he opened a wagon shop, conducting the same
until 1897, when he again entered the service of the J. S. Rowell Manufactur-
ing Company. In 1901 he was elected justice of the peace and has filled the
office to the present time in a most acceptable manner, his decisions being at all
times fair and impartial.
Mr. Miltgen has been married twice. On the 21st of November, 1861, he
wedded Miss Elizabeth Lux, a daughter of John and Katrina Lux, of Ad-
dison, Washington county, Wisconsin. The brothers and sisters of Mrs. Eliza-
beth Miltgen were as follows: Joseph, who lives in California; Maggie, who is
a resident of Racine, Wisconsin ; Theresa, whose demise occurred in Marinette,
this state; Katie, living in Richfield, Washington county; Henry, of Minne-
sota; Frank, of Iowa; and Michael, who resides in North Dakota. Unto John
and Elisabeth Miltgen were born the following children: Katie, who lives in
Milwaukee; Theresa, who died on the 3rd of April, 1870, when seven years
of age ; Eva, who makes her home in Beaver Dam ; Annie, living in South
Dakota ; Theresa and Lillie, both of whom are residents of California : Hen-
rietta, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Frank, of 'Milwaukee. The wife and
mother was called to her final rest on the 3d of December. 1877. In May,
1878, Mr. Miltgen was again married, his second union being with Miss Eva
JOHN L. MILTGEN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
157
Kadinger, a daughter of John and Katrina Kadingcr, of Lomira, Wisconsin.
By this marriage there were five children, namely: Doretta; John W., residing
in Michigan ; George and Louis, who died in infancy ; and Mamie, of Beaver
Dam.
In politics Mr. Miltgen is a stalwart democrat. He was chosen city treas-
urer in 1896 and, as above stated, is now filling the office of justice of the
peace. He is a Catholic in religious faith and for eleven years served as presi-
dent of the Beaver Dam Branch, No. 48. of the Catholic Knights of Wiscon-
sin, while for two years he acted as financial secretary of the organization.
John Miltgen has now passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years
and ten and can look back upon an active and useful career. No trust reposed
in him has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree and his fidelity to hon-
orable, manly principles has ever won for him the good-will and friendship
of those with whom he has been brought in contact.
MARTIN MOHR.
Martin Mohr is living retired at No. 315 West Maple avenue, Beaver Dam,
after eighteen years' successful identification with the butcher business in that
city. He was born in Milwaukee, August 15, 1857, and is a son of Henry and
Mary Mohr, natives of Germany. The father was born in Saxony, in 1827,
and the mother in Uchte, Hannover, January 19, 18 19. The father came to
America in 1841, settling first in Baltimore, Maryland, and later in Milwaukee,
where he was among- the pioneer residents. Their marriage occurred in Mil-
waukee, Wisconsin, February 2, 1854. Henry Mohr enlisted for service in the
Civil war with the Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry and was killed in the
battle of Gettysburg, July 3, 1863. He is buried in the military cemetery of
that city. His wife survived him until December 24, 1896, dying when she was
about seventy-eight years of age. She is buried in Calvary cemetery at Mil-
waukee.
Martin Mohr is one of two children, his sister Emma making her home
in Milwaukee. He was educated in the public schools of Milwaukee and has
been earning his own living since he was fifteen years of age. In that year he
learned the butcher business and for two years followed this line of occupa-
tion in his native city, going at the end of that time to Juneau, where he pur-
chased an establishment already founded and operating it successfully along
the most modern and progressive lines for fourteen years. When he disposed
of his holdings in Juneau he came to Beaver Dam, settling in this city in 1894.
Here he purchased a business which had been neglected for some time and
was in an extremely run-down condition. He took personal charge of its
management and within a short time had put it upon a paying basis. This
enterprise he conducted for eighteen years with constantly increasing suc-
cess, building up during that interval a reputation for honesty and straightfor-
ward commercial methods and ability of a high order. In 191 1 he sold his
lease of the building in which he carried on his enterprise to the State Bank of
Beaver Dam and retired from active life. He owns a comfortable and pleas-
»
158
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ant home at No. 315 West Maple avenue and is extensively interested in real
estate besides being a stockholder in the German National Bank.
On July 12, 1882, Mr. Mohr was united in marriage to Miss May Arnold, a
daughter of Samuel and Angeline (Phelps) Arnold, natives of New York.
They were married in that state and came to Wisconsin about the year 1844.
settling in Dodge county. Mrs. Mohr's father passed away in 1881, when he
was seventy-six years of age. Her mother resided in Juneau and died July
14, 191 2, in her ninetieth year. The wife of our subject was the ninth in a
family of ten children and was born in Dodge county, November 23. 1862.
She and her husband became the parents of four children: Ethel, who mar-
ried G. Berg, of Spokane, Washington, by whom she has one child, Lois;
Fred, who passed away May 14, 191 1 ; Harry, who died when he was a year
old; and Lois June, who lives at home.
Mr. Mohr is a democrat in his political views and always votes the party
ticket. He and his family are members of the Episcopal church. Fraternally he
belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and is also active in the affairs
of the Knights of Pythias. He has attained financial success by the able con-
duct of an important and progressive business enterprise and has won personal
recognition as an honest man. This title has never been denied him, for his
integrity of purpose dominates all his activities and has influenced his busi-
ness and individual life.
Charles C. Miller is well known in the business circles of Beaver Dam as
both merchant and lawyer, for he conducts a book store while engaged in the
practice of law. He was born in Milwaukee in 1854, his parents being Gus-
tavus and Louise (Dempewolf ) Miller, who were natives of Prussia, Germany,
and became residents of Milwaukee in 1854, the father there following the
tailor's trade which he had learned in his native land. In 1856 he came to
Beaver Dam and changed his occupation, opening a grocery store. He was
connected with that and other business enterprises up to the time of his re-
tirement, after which he spent his last days in the enjoyment of well earned
rest, his death occurring in Beaver Dam, in December, 1908. His widow still
survives and is now eighty-three years of age. Mr. Miller's political support
was given to the democratic party. In their family were eight children, five
of whom reached years of maturity : Gustave, who was a cigar manufacturer
of Des Moines, Iowa, but is now deceased ; Charles C. ; Albert, who is a farmer of
Canada and is also connected with theater interests there ; Otto, who resides
in Sumner, Iowa ; and Memmah, at home.
Charles C. Miller is indebted to the public school system of Beaver Dam
for the early education which he enjoyed and which was supplemented by
study in Wayland College. He read law under the direction of several prom-
inent attorneys and for eight years was upon the road selling musical instru-
ments. In 1880 he turned his attention to the book business, in connection with
Captain Hammer, of Beaver Dam, and five years later bought out his cm-
CHARLES C. MILLER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
159
ployer, since which time he has conducted a book store in this city, being now
one of the oldest merchants in this line here. He read law from 1880 until
1882 and was admitted to the bar in 1883, since which time he has carried on
a good practice. For eight years he was justice of the peace.
EDWARD L. ARNDT.
Edward L. Arndt is secretary and vice president of the Beaver Dam Bot-
tling Company and his efforts have contributed in substantial measure to the
continued growth and success of that concern. He was born at Watertown,
Wisconsin, in 1869, his parents being William J. and Amelia Arndt, whose
marriage was celebrated in 1866. The father, a native of Germany, was
brought to the United States when but six years of age and, coming to Dodge
county, Wisconsin, has here resided to the present time. He followed farm-
ing as a life work but for the past twelve years has lived retired at Beaver
Dam. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: Amanda, who
is a resident of Jefferson county, this state ;* Edward L., of this review ; Wil-
liam, living in Jefferson county ; Clara, of Green Lake county, Wisconsin ; and
Rosie and Sylvia, both of Beaver Dam.
Edward L. Arndt attended the public schools of Watertown in the acquire-
ment of an education, but when a youth of thirteen put aside his text-books
and familiarized himself with the process of cheese making. Subsequently he
turned his attention to butter making, being thus engaged for a period of
eighteen years. On the expiration of that time he took up his abode in Beaver
Dam and was here engaged in the draying business for five years. In 1907
he became a partner of J. I. Marquart by purchasing an interest in the Beaver
Dam Bottling Company and has since acted in the dual capacity of secretary
and vice president.
In 1893 Mr. Arndt was joined in wedlock to Miss Helena M. Young, a
daughter of Louis Young, of Dodge county. They have a daughter, Ruth,
who is fourteen years of age and attends public school. Mr. Arndt gives his
political allegiance to the democracy, while his religious faith is that of the
Lutheran church. In social circles he has gained the warm friendship and
regard of all with whom he has been brought into contact, while in business
life he has gained that success which comes from close application, industry
and capable management.
EMIL REX.
Emil Rex, busily engaged in general farming, is the owner of a well im-
proved tract of land in Hubbard township. He is numbered among the worthy
native sons of Dodge county, his birth having occurred in Hubbard township
on the 14th of July, 1878. His parents, F. W. and Catherine (Simon) Rex.
were both natives of Germany, the former born in Oderbruch on the 3rst of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
August, 1838, and the latter in Luxemburg in 184 1. F. W. Rex emigrated to
the United States in 1852 and immediately turned his attention to general agri-
cultural pursuits. He owned and conducted a drug store at Hustisford for a
number of years. For several years, during the period of the Civil war, be con-
ducted a dry-goods establishment in Juneau, and he became widely recognized
as one of the prosperous and esteemed citizens of this county. It was in 1861
that he wedded Miss Catherine Simon, who had been brought to this country
when but a year old.
Emil Rex was a young man of twenty-five years when he started out a's
an agriculturist on his own account, receiving a farm from his father on sec-
tion 2i, Hubbard township, the operation of which has claimed his attention
continuously since. He is now engaged in general farming but expects in the
near future to begin the raising of full bred Holstein cattle. He has erected a
silo and a commodious new residence and has made many other substantial
improvements on the property, which in its neat and attractive appearance gives
evidence of his careful supervision. Mr. Rex also acts as secretary of the co-
operative store at Horicon and enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the
substantial and representative citizens of his native county.
As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life Mr. Rex chose Miss
Esther Jesse, who was born in Leroy township, this county, on the 6th of May,-
1878. her parents being Frank and Minnie (Ewald) Jesse. The father's birth
occurred in the province of Pommern, Germany, on the 16th of March, 1848,
while the mother was born in Uckermark, Germany, on the 2d of June, 1846.
Frank Jesse came to the United States as a boy and it was on the 5th of April,
1867, that he wedded Minnie Ewald. Mr. and Mrs. Rex now have two children,
as follows: Harvey, who was born on the 4th of January, 1905; and Orrin,
whose natal day was May 18, 1910.
In his political views Mr. Rex is a republican. He has served in the ca-
pacity of school clerk for six years and still discharges the duties of that of-
fice. He is a devoted and consistent member of the German Evangelical church.
Both he and his wife have remained residents of Dodge county throughout
their entire lives and have a host of warm friends here.
Albert A. Koch is a dealer in clothing and men's furnishings in Beaver
Dam and one feature of his success is the fact that he has continued in this
line of trade since completing his education. His business methods, too, are
such as will bear close investigation and scrutiny and although one of the younger
merchants of the city he is now well and substantially established in business.
Dodge county numbers him as a native son, his birth having occurred in Tren-
ton township, March 24, 1885. His parents were Louis and Ottilie ( Steube)
Koch, both of whom were natives of Germany, whence they came to the new
world, settling at once in Dodge county. The father, who also followed the
occupation of farming, owned and operated one hundred and sixty acres of
land which he brought under a high state of cultivation. Both he and his wife
ALBERT A. KOCH.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
were members of the German Lutheran church and found in its teachings the
rules which governed their conduct. In his later life the father lived retired in
Beaver Dam, where he passed away in 1900, being still survived by his wife.
They were the parents of three children : Carl, now deceased ; Gertrude, the
wife of Joseph Hammer, of Beaver Dam ; and Albert A.
The last named acquired a public school education and was also a student
in the Spencerian Business College of Milwaukee. In 1899 his brother Carl
had opened a store for the sale of men's furnishing goods and was thus con-
nected with business interests in this city until his death in 1901. On the com-
pletion of his education Albert A. Koch entered his brother's store and is now
one of the partners, Robert Baum having also acquired an interest in the busi-
ness. They handle a general line of men's furnishings and their trade is
steadily growing, for they have proven themselves worthy of the public patron-
age by reason of their straightforward dealings and the large and well selected
line of goods which they carry.
On the 24th of June, 1908, was celebrated the marriage of Albert A. Koch
and Miss Edith E. Nolson, a daughter of C. C. Nolson, of Beaver Dam, and
they now have three children: Carl, three years of age; and Louise Otelia
Koch and Louie Peter Koch, who are twins. Mrs. Koch is a member of the
Episcopal church and Mr. Koch is a Royal Arch Mason, loyal to the teachings
of the craft. Both are well known and the hospitality of many of the best
homes in the city is accorded them. While one of the younger merchants, he
has already won for himself an enviable place as a wide-awake, alert and
energetic representative of commercial interests.
FRANK SCHULTZ.
Frank Schultz, devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pur-
suits, is the owner of an excellent farm on section 21, Hubbard township. His
birth occurred in Dodge county on the 18th of July, 1877, his parents being
Fred and Louisa (Schnorstein) Schultz, the former a native of Germany and
the latter of this county. On attaining his majority he started out as an agri-
culturist on his own account, renting a farm which he operated for four years.
On the expiration of that period he purchased a tract of forty acres near
Kekoskee and after cultivating the same for four years traded it for a farm of
eighty acres near Mayville. Disposing of that place, in 1910, he took up his
abode on the farm which is now in his possession and on which he has resided
continuously to the present time. He devotes his attention exclusively to gen-
eral agricultural pursuits and is meeting with success in this connection. He
has built a silo and has improved his buildings generally, and everything about
his place gives evidence of the supervision of a practical and progressive owner.
On the 10th of November, 1898, Mr. Schultz was united in marriage to
Miss Emma Berg, who was born in Fond du Lac county on the 13th of April,
1878, her parents being Ludwig and Mary (Brazlow) Berg, natives of Ger-
many. Our subject and his wife now have three children, namely: Esther,
who was born on the 5th of November, 1902; Viola, whose birth occurred on
162
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the 17th of September, 1907; and Melvin, whose natal day was February
18, 1910.
In politics Mr. Schultz is independent, supporting men and measures rather
than party. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, belonging to the church of
that denomination at Horicon. In the community where his entire life has
been spent he enjoys the regard and esteem of an extensive circle of friends.
Albert A. Goetsch, residing on section 21, Oak Grove township, is the pro-
prietor of the Pine Grove Stock Farm, on which he keeps pure bred Holstein
cattle and also Duroc hogs. The place embraces one hundred and seventy-two
acres and is well improved in every particular. His birth occurred in Emmet
township, Dodge county, on the 19th of July, 1864, his parents being William
F. and Charlotte (Learman) Goetsch, both of whom were natives of the province
of Pommern, Germany. The father was born July 27, 1820, while the mother's
birth occurred November 14, 1819. William F. Goetsch served as a soldier
in the regular army of Germany and followed the tailor's trade in that country
until 1846. In that year he emigrated to the United States, coming direct to
Dodge county, Wisconsin, and locating in Emmet township, where he purchased
a farm of sixty acres. Subsequently he extended the boundaries of his place
by additional purchase until it comprised ninety acres, and thereon he made
his home until 1885, when he disposed of the property and took up his abode
on the farm which is now in possession of our subject. His demise occurred
on the 1 2th of March, 1901, while his wife was called to her final rest in the
spring of 1899. The period of his residence in Dodge county covered fifty-five
years and he enjoyed an enviable reputation here as a substantial and esteemed
citisen.
Albert A. Goetsch obtained his early education in the district schools of
Emmet township and later pursued a course of study in the high school at
Watertown. He was the youngest in a family of eleven children. After put-
ting aside his text-books he worked for others at intervals until twenty-four
years of age, when he purchased the old homestead place, which has since re-
mained in his possession. It is situated a mile west of Juneau and comprises
one hundred and seventy-two acres of rich and productive land. The modern
buildings which adorn the property were all erected by him and stand as monu-
ments to his thrift and enterprise. The place is known as the Pine Grove Stock
Farm and is operated as a breeding farm, Mr. Goetsch keeping pure bred Hol-
stein cattle, Duroc hogs and high grade Percheron horses. He has won grati-
fying success in this connection and is also a stockholder in the proposed Mil-
waukee Western Electric Railroad and the Juneau Cheese & Butter Company.
On the 21 st of September, 1888, Mr. Goetsch was united in marriage to
Miss Matilda Voth, who was born in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, on the 3d
of November, 1865, her parents being Frederick and Fredericke (Zelaff) Voth.
natives of the province of Pommern, Germany. They were born about the
year 1820 and emigrated to the 'United States about the same time as our sub-
ALBERT A. GOETSCH.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
163
ject's parents, locating at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, where Mrs. Voth passed
away in 1879. Frederick Voth, who followed farming throughout his entire
business career, spent the last years of his life with his son-in-law, Mr. Goetsch,
and died in 1890. Mrs. Goetsch is the youngest in a family of six children
and by her marriage has become the mother of seven children, as follows:
Florence, born August 4, 1890, who is a teacher in the Orphan Asylum at
Racine ; Frank A., whose birth occurred on the 9th of February, 1893 ; Inez,
whose natal day was May 2, 1895; Mina, born February 12, 1900; Anson,
whose birth occurred on the 7th of June, 1902 ; Elmer, born June 8, 1905 ; and
Gilbert, whose natal day was July J, 1909. All except the first named are still
under the parental roof.
Mr. Goetsch is a republican in politics and has served as chairman of Oak
Grove township for one term. His religious faith is that of the Baptist church,
while fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen and the Beavers.
His entire life has been spent in Dodge county, where he is widely known and
where he has so directed his labors as to win substantial success as the result
of his industry and integrity.
FRANZ J. HOSIG.
Franz J. Hosig, the owner of an excellent farm of eighty acres in Hubbard
township, devotes his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits with
gratifying success. His birth occurred in Hartford, Washington county, Wis-
consin, on the 2d of April, 1865, his parents being John M. and Louisa (Kock)
Hosig. The father was born in Switzerland on the 24th of January, 1829,
while the mother's birth occurred in Germany on the 17th of August, 1838.
John M. Hosig emigrated to the United States in the '50s and began farming
near Hartford, this state, It was in the year 1862 that he wedded Miss Louisa
Kock.
Franz J. Hosig obtained his education in the schools of Hubbard township,
being one year of age when he came to this county with his parents, who set-
tled on a farm in that township. He assisted his father in the work of the
fields and thus early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to
the lot of the agriculturist. At the age of twenty-seven years he was married
but remained on the home farm and has operated the same to the present
time. The property comprises eighty acres of rich and productive land and in
its cultivation he has won success, the well tilled fields annually yielding golden
harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.
He has built an addition to the barn and repaired the residence, and the farm
is now well improved in every particular.
In 1892 Mr. Hosig was united in marriage to Miss Anna Dornfeldt, who
was born in Hubbard township, this county, on the 4th of December, 1869, her
parents being Frederick and Henrietta (Neider) Dornfeldt, natives of Ger-
many. Our subject and his wife have four living children, as follows : Hilda,
who is now the wife of William Webber ; Leona, who was born on the 30th of
Digitized by Google
164
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
October, 1894; Regina, whose natal day was March 28, 1898; and Erna, whose
birth occurred on the 25th of September, 1899.
At the polls Mr. Hosig casts his ballot in support of the men and measures
of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good
government. His religious faith is that of the German Evangelical church.
Earnest effort and intelligently directed labor have ever constituted the salient
features of his business career, while his life has been governed by high prin-
ciples that have gained for him the respect and good-will of his fellowmen.
Rev. Edward B. Edmunds who is living retired at 205 North Division street,
Beaver Dam, is a splendid example of the earnest, sincere and God-fearing
clergyman. He has been for over forty years a force in the Baptist church in
Wisconsin, achieving undoubted success by useful, valuable and practical work.
In the course of a long life he has labored steadily for the advancement of reli-
gion and for its imprinting in the hearts of the people and has earned his retire-
ment which is more a slackening of labor than entire quiescence. Mr. Edmunds
was born in Hamilton, Madison county, New York, June 18, 1839, and is a son
of James and Cordelia (Spear) Edmunds, the former a native of Vermont
and the latter of New York. They were of Puritan ancestry and were married
in Macedon, New York, and lived in Orleans county for some time. The father
engaged in agricultural pursuits and spent a great deal of his time in Christian
agency work being a deeply religious man. He took an active part in the foun-
dation and early development of Colgate University and in the founding of the
University of Rochester, New York. In 1855 he moved to Louisville, Ken-
tucky, where he became identified with the Bible Revision Association and
was engaged in this line of activity at the time of his death which occurred in
February, 1861. His wife had passed away in the spring of 1843.
Edward B. Edmunds was the fifth in a family of seven children. He re-
ceived his primary education in the district schools of Orleans county and was
graduated from Colgate University in i860 and from the seminary in 1864.
At the outbreak of the Civil war he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-first New
York Volunteer Infantry and served until December. 1862. He was poisoned
with ivy in the Chickohominy Swamp in Virginia and was discharged on account
of disability. He was afterward assigned to the pastorate of Avon, Illinois;
Baraboo, Wisconsin; New Lisbon; Oconomowoc. and Lamartine, that state,
following which he was active for one year as Sunday-school missionary, in
connection with the American Sunday-School Union. For thirty-nine years fol-
lowing he served in the same capacity under the American Baptist Publication
Society from which he retired in the spring of 1909. Since leaving his native
state he has been a resident of Wisconsin practically all the time with the excep-
tion of four years between 1877 and 1881, which he spent in Michigan.
In September, 1864, Mr. Edmunds was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Hovey, a daughter of William Hovey, of Whitestown, Oneida county, New
York. She was the youngest of thirteen children and was born October 15,
REV. EDWARD B. EDMUNDS.
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167
1836. Rev. and Mrs. Edmunds became the parents of four children: William
H.; Fredrick, who died at the age of eighteen months; Cora, who died in in-
fancy; and James, of Seattle, Washington, who is married and has one son.
E. B., who is seven years of age.
Mr. Edmunds cast his first vote, for Abraham Lincoln and affiliated with the
republican party until 1907, when he became identified with the prohibition
movement. He has been a member of the Order of Gideons for many years
and was the four hundred and fifty-sixth member of that organization. He is
on the executive board of the Wisconsin Federation of Churches and Reforms,
and is one of the vice presidents of the Wisconsin Sons of Rest Association.
Rev. Edmunds also serves as a member of the board and the executive commit-
tee of the Woodland Academy, and he sits on the board of the Wisconsin state
convention, being one of the Sunday-school committee of that organization.
Locally he serves as chairman of the building committee in charge of the new
church which is in the course of erection in Beaver Dam. He is president of the
Dodge County Sunday-School Association and doing effective work in extending
the influence of Sunday-schools throughout the county with beneficial results
to the people. He is now seventy-three years of age and has earned the
retirement he is enjoying. He has combined with firm faith and upright prin-
ciples the administrative ability to make his beliefs effective and has made
his life convincing by personally following the doctrines he professes.
EDWIN C. WENZ.
Edwin C. Wenz is among the leading business men of Beaver Dam. He is a
partner in the Newton & Wenz Company, now owning and controlling the largest
general store in the city. They set the standard for other establishments of
the same character, giving most careful attention to the selection of goods, to
the personnel of the house and to the character of service rendered the public.
Their business methods, too, are in conformity to the strictest commercial ethics
and thus it is that they merit and receive a liberal share of the public patronage.
Mr. Wenz was born in Iowa October, 1857, his parents being Christian and
Henrietta (Losner") Wenz, who were natives of Germany but came to America
with their respective parents in the '40s. They were married in Sheboygan,
Wisconsin, and afterward lived in St. Paul, while later they became residents
of Iowa. The father was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and at
different times engaged in preaching in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
He died in South Dakota in 1892, and in that state his widow still survives. He
became a preacher of Beaver Dam in 1872 and remained here for three years.
His son, Edwin C. Wenz, having completed his education in the public schools,
became connected with the establishment of which he is now one of the pro-
prietors. That was in the year 1875 when he was eighteen years of age. His
position was that of delivery boy, but gradually he has worked his way upward
through intermediate positions until he is now general manager and president
of the company. The business was organized by T. L. Newton in 1856 and con-
ducted under the firm name of Newton & Willard. In 1883 the present firm of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Newton & Wenz was formed and under that style the business was conducted
until 1901, when it was incorporated under the name of the Newton & Wenz
Company, with E. C. Wenz as president and Miss D. G. Howard as secretary
and treasurer. These, together with M. Prichard and E. L. Marsh, constitute
the board of directors. They conduct a general store in a building forty by one
hundred feet, two stories in height, with basement. Each department is a com-
plete store in itself. The basement is used for groceries; the first floor is used
for men's clothing, notions, dry goods, ladies' furnishings,' men's shoes and the
general offices; and the second floor houses the carpets, rugs and draperies, the
cloaks and dresses and the ladies', misses' and children's ready-to-wear goods.
It also contains an overflow salesroom for men's furnishings. They carry a
large general line of goods in Beaver Dam and arc conducting an extensive busi-
ness, necessitating the employment of fourteen people. From his boyhood days
Mr. Wenz has been continuously connected with this establishment and as his
business ability has developed with the passing years he has gradually worked
his way upward and is now at the head of the enterprise.
In 1885 Mr. Wenz was married to Miss Mary Voreck, of Beaver Dam, a
daughter of William Voreck, and they now have one child, Blanch. Mrs. Wenz
attends the St. Peter's Catholic church. Mr. Wenz votes independently at local
elections but is never remiss in the duties of citizenship and gives generously
of his time and means to further works of public progress. His membership
relations are with the Masonic fraternity, he belonging to the lodge, chapter and
commandery. Its teachings concerning mutual helpfulness and brotherly kind-
liness find exemplification in his life and have won for him the high esteem of
his brethren in the order and of the public at large.
HENRY WILLIAM SCHWANTES.
Henry William Schwantes, successfully engaged in general agricultural pur-
suits, is the owner of a farm of eighty-seven acres on section 16, Oak Grove
township. His birth occurred in Hustisford township. Dodge county, on the
25th of May, 1879, his parents being August and Amelia (Schultz) Schwantes,
both of whom were natives of Germany. They emigrated to the United States
about 1876, locating in Hustisford township, this county, where August Schwan-
tes worked for others. Subsequently he cultivated rented land near Hartford,
Washington county, and later purchased a farm in Hustisford township, being
actively engaged in its operation for about twenty-five years. On the expira-
tion of that period he took up his abode in the village of Hustisford, where his
demise occurred on the 2d of February, 191 1, the community thus losing one
of its substantial and respected citizens. His wife was called to her final rest
on the 1st of February, 1909.
Henry William Schwantes obtained his education in Hustisford and when
not busy with his text-books assisted his father in the operation of the home
farm, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the
lot of the agriculturist. When twenty-one years of age he began working for
others as a farm hand, being thus employed for four years. Subsequently he
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
169
cultivated rented land in Beaver Dam township for one year and then rented a
farm in Oak Grove township, being busily engaged in its operation for five years.
On the expiration of that period in 1908, he purchased eighty-seven acres of
land about a mile northwest of Juneau, where he has since continued to reside,
having brought the place under a high state of cultivation and improvement.
He devotes his attention to the pursuits of farming and stock-raising and keeps
from twenty to twenty-five head of dairy cattle. He is likewise a stockholder
in the Juneau Cheese & Butter Company and has gained a reputation as one of
the prosperous and enterprising citizens of his community.
On the 19th of August, 1901, Mr. Schwantes was united in marriage to Miss
Minnie Kowell, who was born in Germany on the 25th of June, 1879, and who
accompanied her parents on their emigration to the United States about 1884.
Her father first worked for others but subsequently rented land in Hustisford
township, this county, and here passed away soon afterward. The mother
spent her last days with Mr. and Mrs. Henry W. Schwantes, her demise occur-
ring in August, 1908. Our subject and his wife have three children, namely:
Hulda, who was born on the 25th of June, 1902; Violet, whose birth occurred
on the 25th of May, 1903 ; and Roland, whose natal day was April 8, 1904.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Schwantes has sup-
ported the republican ticket at the polls, believing that the principles of that party
are most conducive to good government. His religious faith is indicated by his
membership in the Lutheran church at Juneau. A successful farmer, an exem-
plary citizen, and a young man of high moral standards, he enjoys the respect
of all who have come in contact with him.
FELIX H. MATTHES.
In the death of Felix H. Matthes, Dodge county lost one of its well known and
substantial business men. He was born in Hustisford, October 28, i860, and
that city remained the scene of his labors throughout the entire period of his
busy and active life. His parents, Henry and Marie (Lorenz) Matthes, were
both born in Germany, the father at Alt Ruednitz and the mother in Crossen,
and were numbered among the pioneer residents of Hustisford, where the father
early became identified with mercantile interests. He established his business
in 1855 and to its conduct gave his entire time and attention throughout the
intervening years until 1888, when he gave over to his son Felix the supervision
of his store and removed to Chicago, Illinois, where he is now engaged in the
real-estate business. His wife also survives.
Reared under the parental roof, Felix H. Matthes acquired his early educa-
tion in the district school and this was later supplemented by a course of study
in the Northwestern University at Watertown. Thus well equipped for the
practical and responsible duties of life he returned home and assisted his father
in the conduct of his merchandise business until he was twenty-eight years of
age, when, in 1888, upon his father's removal to Chicago, he took full charge
of he store. In 1902 he entirely rebuilt the building in which the store was
located, making it a thoroughly modern structure in every respect, completely
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
equipped with all necessary accessories for the conduct of an up-to-date mer-
cantile enterprise. He had a large and well selected stock of goods, carrying a
general line of merchandise, and his business policy was such that each year
witnessed a substantial increase in the volume of his trade, which eventually
became large and remunerative. He continued in the conduct of his store until
his death, and was numbered among the most progressive, enterprising and
prosperous business men of his native city. He had other interests as well, own-
ing a large number of thoroughbred Morgan horses and being recognized as one
of the best horsemen in his district, his word being accepted as authority upon
this subject. As he prospered he wisely invested his income in real estate and
at the time of his death was the owner of a number of lots and other property
at Hustisford.
It was on the 15th of September, 1901, that Mr. Matthes was united in mar-
riage to Miss Emma Gebhardt, and unto them was bom one son, Felix G., whose
birth occurred November 12, 1908. Mr. Matthes was called from this life on
the 3d of April, 1910. He is survived by his wife and son and a daughter, by
a former marriage, Georgiana, now Mrs. Wallace H. Rohrschnider. Mrs.
Matthes has manifested considerable business ability in the management of the
affairs entrusted to her at the death of htr husband. She has since sold his
stock interests and has leased the store, from which a good annual rental is
received. She is serving as postmaster of Hustisford, succeeding to the position
after her husband's demise. She is a member of the Union church, as was also
her husband, and his political support was given to the republican party. He
was a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Modern Woodmen of Amer-
ica. He held various local offices including that of postmaster, and for a num-
ber of years was a member of the school board, the cause of education ever
finding in him a warm friend. Progress may be termed the keynote to his
career for he believed in material, intellectual, and moral progress, recognizing
that each has its place in the scheme of the world, and his labors were an element
of growth along those lines during his residence in Hustisford. He possessed
too, those personal qualities which speak for honorable and upright manhood
and which win friendship and regard, and in his death the community lost one
of its worthy and valued citizens.
JOSEPH WAGNER.
Joseph Wagner has been successfully engaged in business as florist in
Beaver Dam for the past thirty-seven years. He is numbered among the worthy
native sons of Dodge county, his birth having here occurred on the 22d of
December, 1855. His parents were Joseph and Theresa (Trauguer) Wagner.
The father, who was born in Germany in 1813, emigrated to America in 1851,
settling in Dodge county, Wisconsin. He was a stone mason by trade and
worked at that occupation throughout his entire life, passing away on the 2d
of September, 1890. To him and his wife were born the following children:
Theresa, who is the wife of S. J. Schafer, of Colby, Wisconsin; Joseph, .of
this review; William, living in Thorp, Wisconsin; Mary, who is the wife of
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
171
Dr. Carl von Neupert and resides at Stevens Point; and Barbara, the wife of
John Hanpey, of Aurora, Illinois.
Joseph Wagner attended the public and parochial schools of Beaver Dam
until about fifteen years of age and subsequently continued his studies in Way-
land Academy during one winter term. About 1875 he embarked in business
at Beaver Dam as a florist and dealer in seeds on the present site of the pub-
lic library and in 1881 sold the property to the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul
Railway Company, from which corporation the city later purchased it for a
library site. As above stated, he has here been engaged in business as a florist
for the past thirty-seven years and has enjoyed continued and growing success.
On the 15th of August, 1880, Mr. Wagner was united in marriage to Miss
Anna Waldeck, a daughter of Henry and Willemina (Donges) . Waldeck, of
Milwaukee. Their son, Clarence H. Wagner, who was born on the 4th of
July, 1881, is a graduate of the graded and high schools and also pursued a
course of study in Wayland Academy, leaving that institution in 1898. Going
to the western metropolis, he entered the Chicago Musical College and follow-
ing his graduation in 1902 pursued a post-graduate course as a violinist for
three years. On the 26th of June, 191 1, he wedded Ha Harvey, a daughter of
Jervis Harvey, of East Pleasant Plain, Iowa.
Mr. Wagner is a democrat in politics and has ably served as member of the
school board for several terms. In former years he was a member of Com-
pany K, the Wisconsin National Guard. In the community where his entire
life has been spent he enjoys the regard and esteem of an extensive circle of
friends.
AUGUST GRONERT.
August Gronert is living retired upon a farm in Oak Grove township and is
well known in agricultural circles of this community, having for many years
operated and improved one hundred and five acres of land. He has now, how-
ever, given up the active work of the fields and has rented out his property. He
was born in Prussia, November 27, 1858, a son of August and Wilhclmina
(Guenther) Gronert, natives of that country, who came to America in 1858 and
settled in Jefferson county, where both died.
Mr. Gronert was educated in the district schools and pursued the usual
course of study until he was eighteen years of age. At that time he began
earning his own livelihood, working as a farm hand for four dollars per month.
For eight years he followed this line of occupation and then purchased land in
Shields township, upon which he resided for four years. Selling this property,
he moved to Watertown township, Jefferson county, and there remained for
twenty-one years engaged in general farming, when he moved to Oak Grove
township, where he still resides. He bought land which he operated and im-
proved for a number of years, selling it in order to purchase one hundred and
five acres in the same section, which he still owns. He has, however, rented out
this property and is living retired.
Mr. Gronert married Miss Wilhelmina Coplenc. who was born in Prussia.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
November 20, 1864, a daughter of August and Sophia (Schultz) Coplene,
natives of that country. They came to America in 1864 and settled in Jefferson
county, coming eventually to Dodge county, where they made their home with
the subject of this review until they died. Mr. and Mrs. Gronert have two
children: Anna, who is residing at home; and Mary, who is the wife of Herman
Schultz, a farmer of this section, by whom she has one child. Arthur.
Mr. Gronert is independent in his political views and never seeks public
office. He is a member of the German Lutheran church. In all the relations of
his life he has shown a progressive spirit and a policy of gradual expansion
and these qualities directed toward agriculture made him thriving and pros-
perous during his active life and an important factor in local development.
Michael Manning, engaged in farming and stock-raising, making a specialty
of Holstein cattle, has a well improved and attractive place, neatness and thrift
characterizing his farm, while substantial buildings, kept in good repair, are
indicative of his progressive spirit. He was born in the town of Clyman, De-
cember 19, 1855. His father, Thomas Manning, a native of Ireland, was born
in 1809 and was eighty-nine years of age when he departed this life. He came
to America in 1844 and devoted his attention to farming, gradually acquiring a
section of land in Dodge county. He married Anna Smith, who was born in
Ireland and died in Clyman at the age of fifty-eight years. They were members
of St. John's Catholic church of Clyman and Mr. Manning gave his political
allegiance to the democratic party but was never active in politics aside from
voting for the principles in which he believed.
Michael Manning spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads,
dividing his time between the obtainment of an education and the work of the
fields. He continued to assist his father in the cultivation and improvement of
the old homestead until twenty-seven years of age, when he received from his
father the farm upon which he now resides, comprising eighty acres of good
land. His fields return to him a substantial income for the care and labor he
bestows upon them, for his methods are both practical and progressive. He has
added substantial improvements to his place, erecting all of the buildings upon
his farm, including the residence, barn and sheds, which furnish ample shelter
for grain and stock, The land was largely covered with timber when it came
into his possession, but he has cleared away most of the trees, the timber bring-
ing him a good price. His entire attention is devoted to farming in its various
branches and in addition to tilling the fields he carries on stock-raising and dairy-
ing, owning a herd of high-grade Holstein cattle. His farm presents a most
attractive appearance, for the buildings are in a state of good repair, the fences
are well kept and the fields arc carefully tilled.
Mr. Manning was married in 1890 to Miss Mary J. Fitzpatrick, who was
born in the town of Portland, this county, October 14. 1870, a daughter of
Francis and Mary A. Fitzpatrick. The father was born in Soaptown, Ohio,
and is now living at Waterloo, Jefferson county, Wisconsin. The mother's birth
MICHAEL MANNING.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
173
occurred in Sing Sing, New York, and she also survives. Mr. and Mrs. Man-
ning became the parents of six children: Loretta, born August 27, 1891, is the
wife of Edward Langer, and Marcella, born April 4, 1893, the wife of Eugene
Becker. Both were well known teachers in Dodge county. Magdaline was born
February 16, 1895. Edwin, born January 14, 1897, is attending school in Juneau.
Cyril, born March 20, 1899, is a student in the high school at Waterloo. Berna-
dette, born December 9, 1904, is a pupil in the district schools. The family hold
membership in St. John's Catholic church at Clyman.
Mr. Manning gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and is a
most active and prominent worker in its ranks. He has attended several of its
state conventions as a delegate and is known to most of the political leaders of
Wisconsin. For two years he served as county coroner and is now a candidate
for that office. He has been chairman of the town board for ten years and he
is a school director of his district. For several terms he filled the office of jus-
tice of the peace and his decisions were ever strictly fair and impartial. He is
a lover of music and plays the violin, his music forming one of the attractive
features of the home. A lifelong resident of Clyman township, he has witnessed
the changes which have occurred here through more than a half century and
is interested in ill that tends to promote public progress and improvement.
ALGERNON' FREDERICK NOYES.
Algernon Frederick Noyes, deceased, was throughout his active business
career successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits in Dodge county,
passing away on the farm where he was born and which had been acquired by
his father from the government. His birth occurred on the 1st of November,
1848, his parents being S. N. and Mary Ann (Curtis) Noyes. The father, who
was born July 19, 1818, died January 1, 1878, and the mother, whose birth oc-
curred December 16, 1812, passed away December 6, 1903, at the remarkable
age of ninety-one years. The father was a native of New Hampshire, while
the mother came to this country from England in 1847. Nicholas Noyes was the
first of the family to come to America, leaving the mother country in 1634 and
settling in New England. The paternal grandfather of our subject, Isaac Noyes,
was born in 1776 and became the father of S. Newel Noyes. The latter took up
government land in Dodge county, Wisconsin, and devoted his attention to its
cultivation throughout the remainder of his life. He taught school in the winter
seasons both before and after his marriage and proved a capable instructor,
imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge which he had acquired.
His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he took an active
interest in the work of the Assembly Presbyterian church of Beaver Dam, of
which he was a charter member. To him and his wife were born four children,
as follows: A. F., of this review; G. H., who is a resident of Cogswell, North
Dakota; Mrs. F.da I.. Atwood, residing in Tcmpleton, Wisconsin; and Clarence,
who died in infancy.
A. F. Noyes attended the graded and high schools of Beaver Dam until six-
teen years of age and after putting aside his text-books worked on the home
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
farm with his father until he attained his majority. He spent the following
four years in Minnesota, when he was married and made his home for two years
in the city of Beaver Dam before returning to the home farm. In the further
cultivation and improvement of that property he was busily engaged during the
remainder of his life, annually harvesting crops which yielded him a gratifying
income. Gradually as his means permitted, he extended the boundaries of his
farm and at the time of his death owned seven hundred acres of valuable land.
He took an active part in the work of the Farmers' Institute and likewise served
as president of the Beaver Dam Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He died
November 9, 1895.
On the 15th of December, 1873, Mr. Noyes was united in marriage to Miss
Amy Baker, a daughter of William and Ann (Bradley) Baker. Mr. and Mrs.
Noyes were the parents of three children: Bessie A.; Frederick A., who died
in infancy, and William B., who is a student in Brown University at Providence,
Rhode Island, and intends to pursue a special course in agriculture at Madison.
Mr. Noyes was a republican in politics and a Presbyterian in religious faith.
In his passing the community lost one of its substantial and esteemed citizens.
His widow, who survives him, has an extensive circle of friends in Beaver Dam,
where she makes her home.
ROY M. FLETCHER.
As secretary, treasurer and general manager of the Hustisford Canning
Company, Roy M. Fletcher is active in the control of one of the important busi-
ness enterprises of this district. He is one of Hustisford's native sons, his birth
occurring on the nth of January, 1876, a son of David J. and Polly (Baker)
Fletcher. The family is one of the oldest in Dodge county, having been estab-
lished here at an early date by Daniel Fletcher, the paternal grandfather of our
subject, since which time representatives of the name have been active in the
material development and public life of the district. Daniel Fletcher was born
near Montreal, Canada, October 15, 181 2, and came to Wisconsin in the fall of
1845, stopping in Milwaukee for a short time. He then made his way to Hus-
tisford, settling on a farm east of the village, where he continued to reside until
his death in the fall of 1893. He was chairman of the township board of super-
visors and also served for one term as a member of the legislature. He married
Miss Emily Morgan, who was born in New York, November 27, 1817, and
passed away but one week prior to the death of her husband. Their son David
James Fletcher was born in Hustisford, March 17, 1846, and in the acquirement
of his education attended the district school and also was a student for two terms
in the Wayland Academy at Beaver Dam. Reared to agricultural pursuits, he
has always been engaged in that line of activity. A"t the age of twenty-two years
he went to Nebraska where he took up one hundred, and sixty acres of govern-
ment land near Lyons and also purchased one hundred and sixty acres, there
remaining for six years. He then sold out his interests in that state and returned
to Dodge county, purchasing property near Hustisford upon which he still resides.
He owns two hundred and twenty-one and a half acres which he rents to the
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Hustisford Canning Company. He has given his attention to general farming,
in which he has met with most gratifying success, and expects to retire from
active life in the fall of 191 2 and take up his abode in the village of Hustisford.
David Fletcher was married on the 5th of October, 1874, to Miss Polly S.
Baker, who was born in Hustisford township in 1851. She is a daughter of
George and Deborah (Van Btaricon) Baker, natives of New York state and
Canada respectively, their marriage-, however, occurring in Hustisford town-
ship. The father gave his entire life to the occupation of farming and became
an extensive land owner in Dodge county. He also won considerable local note
as a breeder of Devonshire cattle, in which occupation he was engaged until his
death about 1886. He had survived his wife for many years, her death occur-
ring in 1865. A republican in politics, he held various local offices and was
among the well known and prominent residents of Dodge county. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. David Fletcher were born five children of whom Roy M. Fletcher is
the eldest. The others are as follows : Anna, who is assistant cashier in the
Hustisford State Bank ; Waldo, whose death occurred in Arizona in March,
191 1 ; Daniel B., a resident of Chicago; and Edwin, who makes his home in
Hustisford. David Fletcher gives his political support to the republican party
and for a number of years has served as school clerk of the district. A life-
long resident of Wisconsin, for more than six decades David Fletcher has been
a witness of its growth and development. Born two years prior to the admis-
sion of the state to the Union, he has seen many of the changes that have occurred
within her borders during the intervening years and has ever been deeply inter-
ested and has aided as far as possible in the work of improvement and progress.
On the old homestead near Hustisford, Roy M. Fletcher, whose name intro-
duces this review, was reared and in the district school he acquired his early
education. Later he attended the public schools of Hustisford and also had the
benefit of a course of study in the Spencerian Business College, attending that
institution in 1893-94. Thus well equipped by a good business training, at the
early age of eighteen he accepted a position as traveling salesman or expert for
the McCormick Harvester Company, and remained with that well known firm
for eight years, his long continuance therewith indicating his capability and
faithfulness in the discharge of his duties. He then became . identified with the
canning business in connection with the Hustisford Canning Company, to which
he has since given his entire time and attention. He is now serving as secretary,
treasurer and general manager, and as such he is exhibiting administrative ability
and executive control. The firm has a large volume of trade and is one of the
principal enterprises of Hustisford, and as one of its officers Mr. Fletcher stands
prominent among the business men of his community.
It was on the 29th of August, 1002, that Mr. Fletcher was united in marriage
to Miss Alice Fisher, who was born September 14, 1880, at West Bend, Wiscon-
sin, a daughter of Wilson and Alice (Case) Fisher. Her parents are natives
of Pennsylvania and Wisconsin respectively, the father born on the 12th of
November, 1848, and the mother April 19, 1846. In early manhood Mr. Fisher
was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church but later became a traveling
salesman while at present he is acting as bookkeeper in the employ of a paper
manufacturing company. To Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher two children have been
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
born: Audrey, whose birth occurred on the 18th of September, 1906; and Roy,
Jr., born in July, 1909.
In politics Mr. Fletcner is an independent republican and has served as vil-
lage trustee since the incorporation of Hustisford. He is well known in fraternal
circles, his membership being in the blue lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Neosho; Hori-
con Chapter, R. A. M., at Horicon; and Olivet Commandery, No. 18, K. T., at
Watertown, while he also belongs to the Eastern Star and Woodmen camp.
The fundamental principles underlying these orders have found exemplification
in the life of Roy M. Fletcher, whose record has been that of an honorable
gentleman and upright business man, who is respected by all with whom he comes
in contact and whose circle of friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his
acquaintance.
RAY W. BAYLEY.
Ray W. Bayley, who is successfully engaged in business as a jeweler in
Beaver Dam, first gained recognition here as an expert watchmaker and opti-
cian. He was born in Trenton township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and is a
son of Frank W. Bayley, whose brothers and sisters were named as follows:
Robinson, Gustavus, S. E., Hannah, Mary, Minerva and Alanson. Frank W.
Bayley, the father of our subject, was engaged in agriculture upon an extensive
tract of land six miles north of Beaver Dam and was prosperous and success-
ful in this line of activity until he passed away in 1886 at the age of thirty-
four years. Unto him and his wife were born four children, as follows: Ray
W., of this review ; Guy M., who died at the age of nine years; Madge W., who
also passed away in the ninth year of her age ; and Inez M.
Ray W. Bayley received his education in the public schools of Beaver Dam
and graduated from the high school of that city in 1902. In the fall of that
year he entered upon an apprenticeship in the jewelry trade which he served
out in the fall of 1905, at which time he went to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
where he perfected himself in the art of watchmaking and engraving with spe-
cial attention to the study of optics in the Philadelphia College of Horology
and Optics. After completing his course he remained in that institution for
some time as assistant instructor in engraving. In the fall of 1906 he returned
to Beaver Dam and entered the employ of W. H. Becken as watchmaker and
engraver. He was ambitious, energetic and economical, and after four years
was able to buy a partnership in the business. On March 1, 191 1, one year
after he had been taken into partnership, he bought out the entire interest of
Mr. Becken in the business and since that time has conducted the enterprise
prosperously and successfully by himself.
On June 12, 1907, Mr. Bayley was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Q.
Grolling, a daughter of Charles Grolling. Mrs. Bayley is one of eleven chil-
dren born to her parents, the others being as follows : Henry, Charles. Gustaf ,
Ernest, Edith, Minnie, Carrie, Anna. Emma and George. To Mr. and Mrs.
Bayley has been born one child. Gilbert, whose birth occurred on November
16, 1009.
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In his political views Mr. Bayley is a republican and usually votes the party
ticket, although he never seeks office. He is a blue lodge Mason, holding
membership also in the chapter, and he is affiliated with the Order of the East-
ern Star. He holds the position of junior deacon in Dodge County Lodge,
No. 72, F. & A. M., and is affiliated with the Presbyterian church. He has
gained that prosperity which results from earnest and well directed labor and is
accounted one of the leading business men in his locality. He unites in his
character the qualities of thrift and determination which are a solid basis for
success.
FRANK RICHTER.
Frank Richter owns and cultivates a farm on section 15, Clyman township,
and in addition rents a tract of land which he is also developing. His place
is neat and thrifty in appearance, is improved with many substantial buildings,
and dairying is made a special feature of his farm work. From his boyhood
days Frank Richter has lived in this county but is a native of Austria, born
June 21. 1864. His parents were Frank and Anna (Worst) Richter, also na-
tives of that country. After losing his first wife the father married Barbara
Schmeiser, who was likewise born in Austria and is still living. After coming
to the new world Frank Richter, Sr., followed farming in Dodge county,
where he made his home until his death, in 1907. His political allegiance was
given to the democratic party and his religious faith was that of St. John's
Catholic church.
In his youthful days Frank Richter, whose name introduces this review,
worked for his father, but when he had attained his majority started out in
life for himself and remained in the employ of others as a farm hand for
about eight years. He afterward spent five years in Chicago, on the expira-
tion of which period he returned to this county and worked on his father-in-
law's place for four years. He next purchased the farm upon which he now
resides, comprising one hundred and seventeen acres of rich and productive
land on section 15 and 16, Clyman township. He also cultivates another place
which he rents from D. Lynch, so that his farming interests are extensive and
important. He has improved his home place in many ways, including the
erection of modern buildings. He added twenty feet to his barn and erected
a new and comfortable residence twenty by thirty feet. His place bespeaks
care and industry and is visible evidence of his success. The products of his
dairy find a ready sale on the market and bring high prices. He is treasurer
of the cheese factory at North Clyman.
Mr. Richter was married in 1891 to Miss Philemina Neis, who was born
in Clyman, March 5, 1865, a daughter of Peter Neis, who was a farmer of
this county and died in June, 1906. The mother, who bore the maiden name
of Mary Winker, is still living on the farm west of Clyman. Mr. and Mrs.
Richter have become the parents of eight children, Jennie. Frank, Rose, Clar-
ence, Blanche, Elizabeth, Edwin John and Walter Joseph, all of whom are
at home with the exception of the eldest, who is the wife of Emil Roffeis.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. Richter gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and has
been called to a number of local offices, serving as supervisor, treasurer and
as chairman of the local board for one term each. He has also been treasurer
of school district No. 4 for eleven years and has been treasurer of St. John's
church for six years — these offices indicating the trust reposed in him. He
also holds membership in the Catholic Knights and in St. John's Catholic church
at Clyman. It is his intention to make his present farm his permanent home
and the careful management of his interests here is bringing to him merited
success.
Dr. Philip Panetti, devoting his life to the practice of medicine in Hustis-
ford, was born in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, December 19. 1870, and
is the fifth in order of birth in a family of eight children. He is a son of
Ernst F. and Barbara A. (Gammier) Panetti, both of whom were natives of
Germany. The paternal grandfather was a native of Italy and served with
Napoleon in his wars, acting as surgeon in a number of important engage-
ments. The father, who was a practicing physician, was born in Ansbach,
Bavaria, while the mother's birth occurred in Baden Baden. It was in the
year 1848 that Dr. Ernst F. Panetti arrived in America, following the outbreak
of the revolution in his native country. He traveled to some extent in the south
and was in New Orleans during the yellow fever epidemic. Later he took up
his abode in Baltimore, where he practiced his profession to the time of his
death, about 1886. He served as deputy United States marshal of the Baltimore
district and was otherwise prominent in public affairs aside from his profes-
sion. His widow still remains a resident of Baltimore.
Dr. P. A. Panetti attended the public schools of his native city and afterward
spent four years as a student under the direction of Professor P. B. Wilson,
city chemist of Baltimore. Subsequently he attended the Baltimore University
Medical School and afterward entered the University of Louisville, from which
he was graduated with the class of 1892. In the years 1894 and 1895 he was
assistant professor of chemistry in the University of Baltimore. He was twenty-
two years of age when he began the practice of medicine following his
graduation, devoting his time and energies to his chosen calling in his native
city for six years, after which he removed to the middle west and has since
remained in general practice in Hustisford. He is now medical examiner for
several life insurance companies and in addition he has a large general prac-
tice which he carefully and successfully handles, for he has ever been a thorough
student of the great scientific principles which underlie his work and also of
the practical phases of his profession.
On the 15th of April, 1897, Dr. Panetti was married to Miss Emma Smith,
who was born in Baltimore, August 16, 1879. and is a daughter of Frederick
W. and Margaret Anna (Roemer) Smith, who were also natives of Germany.
The father was a cigar manufacturer and both he and his wife died in Balti-
more. Dr. and Mrs. Panetti have two children: Philip Allen, born June 13,
PHILIP A. PANETTI, M. D.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
179
1900; and Margaret Anna, born February 23, 1909. The family is prom-
inent socially in Hustisford and their circle of friends is an extensive one. Dr.
Panetti is well known in fraternal connections, holding membership with the
Modern Woodmen of America, the United Order of Foresters and the Royal
Neighbors, while in Masonry he has attained high rank in the York Rite. He
belongs to Neosho Lodge, No. 108, F. & A. M., in which he has served as junior
warden; Horicon Chapter, R. A. M. ; and Olivet Commandery, K. T., at Wa-
tertown. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and he is
now serving as village health officer. For about nine years he filled the office
of clerk of the school board of Hustisford and was a member of the board
of directors for four years. The cause of education finds in him a warm
friend and he is a stanch supporter of all those influences and measures which
are valuable features in the life and progress of every community. He holds
to high ideals in his chosen line of work and with a sense of conscientious
obligation discharges every professional duty.
MAJOR PHILIP J. ZINK.
Philip J. Zink holds the rank of major in the Wisconsin National Guard
and has a record of twenty-five years of continuous service as a member of
that organization. He is an expert in military tactics and in army maneuvers
and has seen active duty in the Spanish-American war as a member of the
Porto Rican Corps. He was born October 23, 1870, and is a son of Philip
and Frances (Hammer) Zink, both natives of Germany. They were born' near
Berlin and were married in Wisconsin in 1859. The father came to America
in 1842 and located immediately in Beaver Dam, where he followed the coop-
er's trade for many years. He was democratic in his political views and gave
his allegiance to the Roman Catholic church. He died in Beaver Dam in 1900
but his wife survives him and is living in Milwaukee. They were the parents
of ten children, Joseph, Frances, Annie. Mary, Emma, Philip, Kunnie, Frank,
John and William.
Philip J. Zink was educated in the public schools of Beaver Dam and in the
local parochial institutions. He laid aside his books at the age of fifteen years
and worked at the cooper's trade for two years. For thirteen years he was
employed in a woolen mill and then was identified for a year with the mills of
the Malleable Iron Range Company. He subsequently bought a half-partnership
in a cafe conducted by Louis Schulze and this business is now conducted under
the name of Schulze & Zink's Cafe. He has from an early period been prom-
inently connected with military affairs. His army career began on September
13, 1888, when he enlisted in Company K, Second Regiment, Wisconsin Na-
tional Guard. His advance was rapid and continuous. He was made corporal
in 1893 and in the following year was promoted to the rank of sergeant, later
becoming second lieutenant. In 1896 he was promoted captain and served in
this capacity until 1898, when he was mustered out of the state guard and im-
mediately thereafter entered the United States army as a member of the Wis-
consin Volunteers. This body of soldiers was mustered out on the 19th of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
November, of the same year, and was immediately reorganized with Philip J.
Zink as captain. He earned his promotion to the rank of major in 1909 and
has since held this commission. He saw active duty in the Spanish-American
war as a member of the Porto Rican Corps and is regarded an expert in military
affairs.
On January 26, 1898, Major Zink was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Hartle, a daughter of Jacob and Frances (Schweiger) Hartle, in whose fam-
ily were nine children, Mary, Lucas, Edward, Michael, Alma, Fred, Jacob,
Raymond and Bernard. To Major and Mrs. Zink have been born five chil-
dren, of whom four passed away in infancy. Arthur, whose natal day was
March 8. 1906, is the only child living. Major Zink is a consistent democrat
and always votes the party ticket. He affiliates with the Roman Catholic
church.
ALFRED CLOUGH.
Alfred Clough who died in Beaver Dam, November 14, 1903, was an ex-
pert machinist and had followed that line of occupation since he was twenty-
one years of age, obtaining distinct success by reason of his industry, determina-
tion and practical knowledge. He had been a resident of Wisconsin since he
was three years old, but was born in Canaan, Vermont, on tbe 7th of August,
1845. His parents were Obadiah and Dorothy (Morrison) Clough, who came
to Wisconsin in 1848, where the father took up two hundred acres of land
near Rolling Prairie which he improved and operated until his death, which
occurred in May, 1900. His wife survived him until September of the same
year and both are buried in Highland cemetery, near Rolling Prairie.
Alfred Clough was the second in a family of nine children. He grew up
on his father's farm and was educated in the district schools of his native
section. When he was twenty-one years of age he left Dodge county and went
to Minnesota, where he purchased land and followed general farming for some
time. He returned at length to Dodge county where he worked at the machin-
ist's trade in Horicon, later following the same occupation in Beaver Dam.
He was an expert machinist and well versed in the technical details of his oc-
cupation, basing a distinct and substantial prosperity upon his industry and
efficiency. He worked until three years before his death, when failing health
compelled his retirement.
On September 27, 1871, Mr. Clough was united in marriage to Miss Mary
McFarland, a daughter of James and Mary McFarland, the former a native
of New York state and the latter of Ohio. Both had lived in Wisconsin since
their early childhood and were married in Oak Grove, Dodge county. James
McFarland was an intelligent student of natural history and pursued his studies
in association with his uncle, Dr. Asa Fitch, a well known naturalist. He came
to Dodge county when he was twenty-one years of age and engaged in gen-
eral farming, following this line of occupation until the outbreak of the Civil
war when he enlisted in a Wisconsin regiment. He was killed in the engage-
ment at Pleasant Hill, Louisiana, and was buried on the battlefield. ITis wife
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
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afterward sold the farm and went to Oak Grove, later coming to Beaver Dam
where she is now living in the eighty-fifth year of her age. Mrs. Clough was
the eldest in a family of four children and was born on March 9, 1853. She
and her husband became the parents of six children: William, who lives in
Oshkosh, is married and has five children; George, who is married and resides
in Beaver Dam: Frank, of Beaver, who is married and has one child; Lutie,
who is engaged in the millinery business in Beaver Dam ; Cora, who is em-
ployed in a store in the same city; and Blanche, who is engaged as a mail
clerk in the range works in Beaver Dam.
Mr. Clough was a republican in his political beliefs. He was a devout
member of the Methodist Episcopal church and was well known in Dodge
county as a man of exemplary life. He had many friends in the section in
which he resided since he was three years of age, and his death was the occa-
sion of deep and widespread regret.
RICHARD A. GOEGGERLE.
Richard A. Goeggerle is one of the progressive and successful merchants of
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and is widely known as a man who by his excellent
business ability has built up a flourishing grocery establishment, which is
counted among the most reliable mercantile enterprises in the city. He was
born on November 1, 1878, in the city in which he is now residing. His parents
were Anton H. and Magdalene (Ingerl) Goeggerle, the former born May 22,
1840, and the latter May 16, 1833. The father of our subject was a native of
Germany and spent his childhood and youth in that country. During his term of
military service he took part in one of the wars of Prussia in the latter half of
the nineteenth century. He came to America in 1866, settling in Beaver Dam,
Wisconsin, where he followed his trade of blacksmithing until 1890. He is
now living retired and has many friends in this city who regard him as an
enterprising and representative man. He and his wife became the parents of
three children: John J., of Ashland, Wisconsin; Martha M., now Mrs. J. Miller,
of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; and Richard A., the subject of this sketch. The
mother of our subject had two children by a former marriage, Joseph and
Helen Patzlsperger, who are both residing in Ashland. Wisconsin.
Richard A. Goeggerle was educated in the parochial and public schools of
Beaver Dam and pursued his education until he was sixteen years of age. [n
1906 he entered into partnership with William Skahen and purchased the grocery
business belonging to August Schade. The enterprise was conducted under the
name of Skahen & Goeggerle for a short time" and was afterward known as
Goeggerle Brothers for one year. At the end of that time Richard Goeggerle
took entire charge of the business and has since conducted it independently
with increasing success. The zeal with which he has devoted his energies to
the expansion of his business, the careful attention which he gives to his
customers and the tasteful and attractive arrangement of his store have brought
him a large business and have made him very successful in its conduct.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
In his political affiliations Mr. Goeggerle is a consistent democrat and al-
ways votes the party ticket. He belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles and
is trustee of St. Peter's Benevolent Society. He is a devout Roman Catholic
to which religion his father also gives his allegiance. His business methods
are at all times straightforward and honorable and the prosperous business which
he has built upon this worthy foundation is a fitting tribute to his ability and
JOHN BRAYMAN.
John Brayman, deceased, was one of the first and most prominent pioneers
in the agricultural development of Dodge county and a man who for many years
gave most of his time and attention to the development of one of the repre-
sentative industries of his section. He was born in Clinton county, New York,
March 9, 1807, and from an early age was identified with farming. He became
the owner of a farm in Chautauqua county. New York, and developed and im-
proved his holdings until 1843. In that year he started west with his family,
traveling overland across the plains. For a year and a half he remained at
Waukegan, Illinois, but in 1845 came to Dodge county and took up a tract of
government land, a part of which is within the present town limits of Horicon.
He developed, improved and cultivated this tract until 1849 and P ut ' l mto
excellent condition by his care and labor. When the great gold discoveries were
made in California in 1849 he mortgaged his Wisconsin farm, paying thirty per
cent interest on the amount of money he obtained. With this capital he went to
the Pacific coast and spent three years in mining and prospecting. He did not,
however, meet with any great success and in 1852 returned to Wisconsin and
settled upon his farm. In the same year he left his original property and bought
another tract near Lake Horicon and the old Horicon cemetery, upon which
he lived for a number of years. Finally he disposed of this also and went to
Illinois and later to Nebraska, where he took up land and was successful as a
general agriculturist until he went to Iowa and made his home in Independence,
where his death occurred. His passing was widely regretted throughout Dodge
county, where he had lived so many years and where his activities had been
valuable factors in development. His integrity, energy and straightforward policy
combined with his many qualities of mind and heart to make his name honored
and respected wherever it was known.
In 1832 Mr. Brayman married Miss Hannah Krouskop Sands, who was born
on the Delaware river in New York state, October 7, 181 3. She was a descendant
of Captain James Sands, of Block Island, a native of England, and prominent
and influential in that country and America. Mr. and Mrs. Brayman became
the parents of eight children. The eldest son, Orin, was born August 9, 1836,
and died in Horicon, June 9, 1852. The second child was a daughter, Mary,
whose birth occurred July 20, 1838. She came with her father to this section
of Wisconsin and lived upon a farm which later became a part of the city of
Horicon before the village was laid out. She was a member of the first school
established in Horicon. The summer school was held in a barn and the accom-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
185
modations as well as the courses of study offered were extremely limited. How-
ever, Miss Bray man made use of every opportunity and by constant and wide
reading fitted herself for teaching and has since become one of the most prominent
educators in this part of the state, where she has done able work in raising
standards of efficiency and developing better and more adequate methods. She
first taught in the district schools but when Mr. Pickett came to Horicon as
principal of the first high school of the village she was appointed his assistant
and did able work in this capacity until she went to Janesville, where she re-
mained for five years and four months. At the end of that time she went to
Whitewater and there for two years taught in the normal school before she went
to Fredonia, New York. Her intention in making this move was to get the
advantage of a broader education along her special line and to get in touch with
other systems and methods. She accordingly took a normal course under Dr.
Armstrong and after completing it went to her aunt's home at Sherman, New
York, where she remained a short time. However, she was soon given a posi-
tion by Dr. Armstrong, her duties being to introduce a primary department in
the normal schools. In the beginning of the following year she went to Platte-
ville, Wisconsin, and taught in the normal school in that city for twelve years.
Her health failing, she was obliged to give up her work and she went to Nuckolls
county, Nebraska, where she had previously invested her savings in a tract of
wild land. She remained upon this property for six years and during that time
transformed it from an undeveloped state into one of the finest and most in-
telligently managed farms in the section. Upon her six hundred acres of land
she built a modern residence, equipped with all conveniences and luxuries and
she made this her home for some time. It was, however, wrecked by a cyclone
and Miss Brayman was herself severely injured. Her leg was broken and the
physician in attendance did not set the bone correctly and Miss Brayman was
obliged to have it broken a second time. However, she eventually recovered and
after selling her land went to the state of Washington, where she invested in
real estate on the line of the Northern Pacific Railroad, near Prosser. Gradually
she added to her holdings until she owned three fine farms. Two of these she
has since sold but still holds title to a large tract of land in that vicinity. She
has definitely established her home in Horicon and is taking a well earned rest
after useful labor. She is a woman of broad culture and wide reading and has
traveled extensively through Europe. She was upon the continent in 1881 at
the time of President Garfield's assassination and at this time she also visited
Palestine and the surrounding countries, returning to America in the following
year. Her career is an effective demonstration of the fact that business ability
is not by any means monopolized by men. During the years of her identifica-
tion with teaching she did important work in expansion, development and sys-
tematizing and when her activities were devoted to more purely business affairs
she showed a shrewdness, discernment and executive force which soon brought
her well deserved success. She has, however, other claims to the high respect
and esteem in which she is held, for she is a splendid example of the modern
woman of unusual ability along various lines, and her fine qualities of mind and
heart have greatly endeared her to her many friends.
The third child born to Mr. and Mrs. John Brayman was Julia, whose birth
occurred in New York, August 25, 1840. She married, on September 12, 1864,
rot n-i 1
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Thomas McNeill, who saw active service during the Civil war and was the first
Union soldier to take a prisoner at the battle of Bull Run. Mrs. McNeill died
January 5, 1865. Rhoda Ann was born October 9, 1842, and married, on Novem-
ber J 7, 1868, M. L. Schermerhorn, of Lynn, Nebraska. Marshall was born
September 12, 1845, in Horicon, and he resides in Ludington, Michigan. He
is a veteran of the Civil war and was active for two periods of enlistment, serving
for the second time under General Brayman. He married, on September 28,
1870, Miss Carrie H. King, whose birth occurred August 20, 1848. Milton was
born July 2, 1848, and married, on November 1, 1867, Miss Delia De Bois. The
later years of his life were spent in California and he died in that state, May
30, 1909. Hester Helena was born July 20, 1850, and married, on September
25, 1874, D. H. Dowland, a dry-goods merchant in Spokane, Washington. His
birth occurred September 21, 1850. The youngest child born to Mr. and Mrs.
John Brayman was Lovena Amanda, whose birth occurred June 24, 1853. She
married, on June 10, 1873, J. W. Kern, a railroad agent at Doniphan, Nebraska.
Mrs. Kern died on the 16th of June, 1888.
HENRY M. HOLTZ, M. D.
Dr. Henry M. Holtz is one of the prominent physicians of Beaver Dam,
Wisconsin, and has built up during the years of his residence in this city a
rapidly growing practice based upon efficiency and professional skill. He was
born January 31, 1871, in Portland, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and is a son of
George and Sophia (Fuhrmann) Holtz. His father was born in Germany on
October 10, 1841, and left his native country for America in 1852. He came
to Elba, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and engaged in agriculture until 1902, when
he retired from active life and removed to Columbus where he died shortly
afterward, on the 3d of April, 1902. His wife was born on December 26,
1846. She is still living in Columbus, Wisconsin, in her sixty-sixth year. Mr.
and Mrs. George Holtz were the parents of three children : Anna, who is
Mrs. Bucholz of Hitchcock, South Dakota; William, who resides in Portland;
and Henry, the subject of this sketch.
Dr. Holtz was educated in Elba district school No. 8, and pursued his studies
until he was twenty years of age. He supplemented this education by two
years in college at Berea, Ohio. He later entered the Hahnemann Medical
School in Chicago and was graduated therefrom in 1897. He received a de-
gree from Rush Medical College in 1898, also going through both medical col-
leges. He located immediately for practice in Beaver Dam and has been steadily
gaining in prominence and prosperity since that time. He is affiliated with the
Wisconsin and Dodge County Medical Societies and always keeps abreast of
the times by exhaustive and practical reading.
On the 22d of June, 1904, Dr. Holtz was united in marriage to Miss Minnie
Rissman, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rissman of Beaver Dam. Mrs.
Holtz' parents are both dead. Her mother passed away at the age of fifty
years and her father when he was eighty-one years of age. In his political views
Dr. Holtz coincides with the republican party, to which organization his father
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
187
also belonged. He is active in all phases of the medical profession and served
as city physician of Beaver Dam with great ability in 1904. His success has
been achieved by reason of intellectual attainment and his professional skill,
and is the direct result of progressive methods and scientific efficiency.
R. P. BINZEL.
R. P. Binzel is at the head of an extensive brewing business in Beaver Dam,
and the enterprise and close application which he displays in its conduct have
been the salient qualities in his success. He was born in Germany, a son of
John P. Binzel, who was a native of Germany. On coming to this country he
embarked in the brewing business in Milwaukee, and for forty-four years he
was the owner of the brewery which is now in possession of his son, R. P.
Binzel, and Xavier Weix. He held to high standards in the manufacture of
beer and won a place among the representative business men of the city. His
death occurred February 21, 1901, when he was seventy years of age.
His son, R. P. Binzel, was educated in the public and high schools, which
he attended until sixteen years of age, when he began working in the brewery
with his father, acquainting himself with every principle and detail of the busi-
ness. On the 10th of December, 1906, he purchased the brewery which he is
still conducting with Xavier Weix as a partner. This brewery has been in oper-
ation for sixty years and now has a capacity of about ten thousand barrels
annually. Modern machinery has been installed and scientific processes are
followed in manufacture, so that the output finds a ready sale with the purchas-
ing public.
On the 5th of February, 1001, Mr. Binzel was united in marriage to Miss
May Brannick, a daughter of Joseph and Susan Brannick. Mr. and Mrs. Binzel
have become parents of two sons : Theobold, born November 14, 1902 ; and
Rudolph F., born June 14, 1910. The religious faith of the family is that of the
Catholic church. Long a resident of Beaver Dam, Mr. Binzel is widely known
and is popular among the German-American residents of the city, while in
business circles he has made for himself a creditable name by his reliable and
enterprising methods.
GEORGE E. DRAHEIM.
George E. Draheim, who lias been acting as mail carrier in Beaver Dam
since October 13, 1908, was born in Germany, December 31, 1882, a son of
William Draheim. The parents were natives of the fatherland and came to
America, settling in Beaver Dam in 1889. Here the father followed the trade
of shoemaking, which he had learned in his native country, and now has one
of the prosperous establishments of this kind in the city.
Mr. Draheim was the fifth in a family of ten children. He was educated
in the public schools of Beaver Dam and when he was twenty-one began work
188
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
in the factories of this city. He followed this occupation until October 13,
1908, when he was appointed mail carrier and has since held that position,
being today one of the reliable and trustworthy members of the local force.
On February 5, 1906, Mr. Draheim was united in marriage to Miss Bessie
Bell Richards, a daughter of Charles H. Richards, of Beaver Dam. Mrs. Dra-
heim is the eldest in a family of three children and was born on the 6th of
September. 1886. She and her husband have one daughter, Ethel Marion. In
his political views Mr. Draheim keeps himself independent of party lines, pre-
ferring to maintain his freedom of conviction and voting always for the man
whom he considers best fitted for the position. He is intelligently interested in
public affairs but never seeks office. He and his family affiliate with the
Lutheran church.
The death of Peter Beule on June 18, 1912, marked the passing of one of
Beaver Dam's most enterprising business men and foremost citizens. For almost
half of a century he had been identified with commercial and civic development,
promoting general welfare and accomplishing his own success and contributing
to that of the city, which was almost his first home in America. He was of
German origin, being born at Hengesbaeck, Kreis Meschede, Regierungsbezirk
Arnsberg, Provinz Westphalen, Germany, March 22, 1845. He came to America
in 1866, landing in Baltimore, on the 17th of June and coming directly to Dodge
county, where he secured work on a farm in Lomira township. After a short
period of residence in that section Mr. Beule came to Beaver Dam where he
entered the employ of W. C. Griffith as druggist's apprentice, later forming a
partnership with Edward Elwell and purchasing his employer's business. This
association existed for one year after which Mr. Beule conducted the enterprise
alone until 1898, when he was compelled on account of ill health to take a rest,
disposing of his drug business. It was in the following year that he was made
cashier of the German National Bank, which position he was holding at the time
of his death. He was also a stockholder and director of the bank. He was
treasurer of the Beaver Dam Malleable Iron Company and the Woolen Manu-
facturing Company and was connected with the Malleable Iron Range Company,
his association with these enterprises dating back to the time of their organiza-
tion. He was also prominent in the affairs of several other local industries and
was president of the Sun Coal Company of Caryville, Tennessee, at the time
. of his death.
Mr. Beule was twice married. His first union was with Miss Mary Fischer,
whom he wedded in 1872, and who with an infant daughter died one year later.
On May 13, 1879, he was again married, his second wife being Miss Caroline Sher-
man of Beaver Dam. To this union three children were born : Arthur F., who
graduated in law at the State University and whose promising career was cut
short by death at the age of twenty-three years; Alfred, who died when he was
twelve years old ; and Myrtha Dorothea, who married Ira E. Burtis of Chicago,
Illinois, by whom she has one daughter, Caroline.
PETER BEULE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
189
In his political affiliations Mr. Beule was a consistent democrat and served
as a member of the school board for one term. He was a government oil in-
spector for ten years and did able work along this line. He gave his allegiance
to the Roman Catholic faith. During his active years he contributed to the
general growth of Beaver Dam by his efficient and capable management of the
affairs with which he was directly connected and by his public-spirited interest
in the growth and upbuilding of some of the most important industries in the
district. Through his efforts and those of his contemporaries the city has changed
from a country town to a position where it ranks with foremost manufacturing
communities of the state. His career dates back to the beginning of municipal
organization and he witnessed the gradual development and growth as his own
prominence increased and with it his importance in the commercial world. He
was ever ready to lend a helping hand to a newly established industry. Judged
by every modern standard he was a successful man. The work which he did
he did well, gaining prosperity by adhering to standards of honor and integrity,
which qualities as elements in his character made him a public-spirited citizen
and an upright and worthy man.
CHARLES W. HELBING.
Charles W. Helbing is conducting a drug business and dealing in allied lines
in Beaver Dam, gaining recognition as an upright and thoroughly modern busi-
ness man. He was born in October, 1873, and is a son of Carl and Elizabeth
(Rose) Helbing. He is of German ancestry, his grandfather, Carl August Hel-
bing, having been born in that country. The father of Charles Helbing was one of
four children born to his parents. The others are: Mrs. Sophia Vetter of
Beaver Dam; Gottfried, deceased; and Fred, who has also passed away. The
father of our subject followed agricultural pursuits for many years. He was a
native of Germany and came to America, settling in Dodge county, Wisconsin,
when, he was a young man. He farmed in this section until 1881 and in that
year retired, removing to Beaver Dam, where he now lives. He served his
country in the Federal army during the Civil war. He is a democrat and a
stanch supporter of the principles of this party. He belongs to the Lutheran
church. To him and his wife were born four children : Mrs. Emma Butterbrod
of -Beaver Dam; Johanna, who lives in the same city; Charles W., the subject
of this review ; and Philip, a resident of Horicon.
Charles W. Helbing was educated in the public schools of Beaver Dam and
attended the local high school. He is an expert pharmacist, having been gradu-
ated from the Wisconsin State University at Madison, receiving his degree of
Ph. G. in 1894. He has been connected with the drug business since he began
his active career. When he completed his education he entered the employ of
Peter Beule and gained a practical experience in his chosen field of endeavor
which has been a valuable asset to him ever since. He was eventually able to
buy out the interests of W. D. Chandler and in July, 1897, established himself
independently in the drug business which he carries on along modem lines
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
He is an expert chemist and pharmacist and gives careful attention to his store,
and particularly to the prescription department.
On July 10, 1902, Mr. Helbing married Miss Freda Miller, a daughter of
Bernard and Frederica Miller, of Trenton, Wisconsin. Mrs. Helbing is one of
the following children, born to her parents: Mrs. August Lidtke of Fox Lake,
Wisconsin; John E., of Beaver Dam; Bernard, who resides in Trenton, Wiscon-
sin ; and Mrs. Leon Whitmore, of Beaver Dam. To Mr. and Mrs. Helbing have
been born three children: Carl Bernard, whose birth occurred on April 16,
1906; Harry M., born August 22, 1908, who died on the 29th of January, 1910;
and John Frederick, born on the 7th of December, 191 1.
In his political views Mr. Helbing is independent and takes a laudable interest
in public affairs. He is connected with the Wisconsin Pharmaceutical Associa-
tion and his fraternal affiliations include identification with the Masons, in which
he holds membership in lodge and chapter. He belongs to the Royal Arcanum
and is also prominent in the affairs of the Tribe of Ben Hur. He represents
high standards in business and honorable and progressive methods. He gives
his undivided attention to his enterprise and has brought it to a prosperous
condition by continuous industry.
Theodore W. Ohnstedt is conducting a general stock farm in Clyman town-
ship, making a specialty of raising horses and cattle. This is the old homestead
of the Ohnstedt family and was the birthplace of our subject, whose natal day
was April 21, 1872. His parents were Henry and Caroline (Klehn) Ohnstedt,
the former born in Hamburg, Germany, July 5, 1824, and the latter in Prussia
on the 5th of September, 1842. Mrs. Ohnstedt's father, Daniel Klehn, was a
blacksmith and after traveling extensively he came to Watertown, Wisconsin,
in 1853, there establishing a blacksmith shop in 1855. As the years passed by
he built up a large business which he conducted successfully until 1871, when
he removed to Seymour and engaged in blacksmithing and farming up to the
time of his death, which occurred in the year 1885. His widow afterward went
to live with a daughter at Parkston, South Dakota, and there passed away in 1888.
Henry Ohnstedt, who was a shepherd in early life, came to the United States
in 1853 and made his way direct to Watertown. He was married August II,
1867, and afterward was employed at railroad work and at other occupations.
At times he spent the summer seasons in the harvest fields and also followed
carpentering. At length by reason of his unfaltering industry and his careful
expenditure he was enabled to purchase two pieces of residence property in the
sixth ward, where he established his home and there engaged in raising chickens.
He then purchased the farm upon which his son Theodore now resides and for
twenty-eight years was active in its further cultivation and improvement. He
began here with eighty acres of land to which he added from time to time as his
financial resources increased until at his death, in 1896, he owned two hundred
and twenty acres. He was twice married but had no children by his first mar-
riage. One of Mrs. Ohnstedt's brothers, Daniel Klehn, was a soldier of the
THEODORE W. OHNSTEDT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
191
Civil war and was wounded at the time of General Lee's surrender. Mrs. Caro-
line Ohnstedt survives her husband and lives on the old farm, keeping house
for her sons.
In taking up the personal history of Theodore W. Ohnstedt we present to
our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known in this
locality where he has always resided, living continuously on the old homestead
from the time of his birth to the present. Since his father's death in April,
1896, he has had entire charge of the farm and makes stock-raising the leading
feature of the place, giving his attention chiefly to the raising of good horses and
cattle. He is one of four children, the others being: George, who was bora
June 3, 1868, and is a farmer and mechanic living at Landsport, North Dakota;
Frank, who was born July 3, 1870, and is a farmer residing at Dorchester, Clark
county, Wisconsin ; and Urania, who was born May 23, 1876, and is still at home.
Theodore Ohnstedt concentrates his attention and energies upon his farming
and stock-raising interests, turning aside for no active participation in political
or public affairs. He finds that his agricultural interests make a continuous
demand upon his time and his capable management and unfaltering industry
are important factors in the success which he has achieved.
PATRICK CALLAHAN.
For twenty-eight years Patrick Callahan has been carrying on general farm-
ing on one hundred and sixty-five acres of land on section 14, Clyman township,
and is accounted one of the most able and successful agriculturists in Dodge
county. He was born in Clyman township, March 13, 1852, and is a son of
Charles and Rebecca (Mavis) Callahan, the former a native of Ireland and the
latter of Pennsylvania. His father came to America in the early '40s and in
1844 settled on the farm in Dodge county now occupied by his son. He found
here a tract of unbroken wilderness and the land which he took up was covered
with a heavy growth of timber. With resolute energy he applied himself to its
development and improvement and soon had a profitable modern farm, upon
which he resided until his death, in February, 1872. His wife passed away in
April, 1888.
In the acquirement of an education Patrick Callahan attended district school
in Clyman township and when not engaged with his books aided in the work of
his father's farm. Upon the latter's death he was joint-heir to the property with
the other members of the family, but he did not immediately engage in agri-
cultural pursuits. In May, 1881, he left Wisconsin and went west, where he
remained for three years engaged in various occupations. When he returned
he assumed the management of the homestead and in 1895 purchased the in-
terests of the other heirs and has since been sole owner. He carries on general
farming and is likewise extensively interested in dairying, keeping a fine herd
of cows for this purpose. He has constantly followed a policy of improvement
and during the years has erected the necessary buildings upon his land, includ-
ing a fine new residence and a granary. AH of his time is given to the manage-
ment of his farm, which he has made modern and complete in every respect.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
In 1891 Mr. Callahan was united in marriage to Miss Bridget O'Meara, who
was born in Oyman township about the year 1862. Her father, Patrick O'Meara,
was a native of Ireland but died in America. Her mother has also passed away,
her death having occurred in 1884.. Mr. and Mrs. Callahan have three children :
Charles, eighteen years of age, who lives at home; Ettie, who is fourteen years
of age and who is attending public school ; and Clara, aged twelve, who is also
pursuing her studies. The family are devout members of the Roman Catholic
church.
Mr. Callahan gives his allegiance to the democratic party but is not active in
'public life. His interests are, however, thoroughly identified with those of Cly-
man township and his long period of work has been an important factor in the
agricultural development of the section. He has made many friends in this
locality, who honor him for the success he has won and for the upright and
honorable methods by which it was attained.
ROBERT C. DRAKE.
Robert C. Drake carries on general farming in Gyman township, owning
and cultivating one hundred and twenty acres of land and at the same time en-
gaging successfully in the breeding and raising of registered Holstein cattle.
He was born in New Jersey, June 18, 1853, and is a son of Martin and Sophia
(McKinley) Drake, who were also natives of the same state. In early life the
father engaged in merchandising but subsequently turned his attention to farm-
ing, which he followed in the east until June, 1854, when he tfame with his
family to Wisconsin. In the fall of the same year he purchased the farm upon
which his son Robert now resides and made it his home until his life's labors
were ended in death, on the 2d of May, 1887. His widow afterward removed
to Oak Grove, where she died about five years later. Mr. Drake was a worthy
and influential resident of his community and served his township as chairman
of the board for several terms, was also clerk and treasurer for a number of
terms and justice of the peace for several years. Every official duty that de-
volved upon him was promptly, faithfully and capably executed and he was
accounted one of the substantial residents of the community.
Robert C. Drake was the sixth in order of birth in a family of seven children
and was only about a year old when brought by his parents to this state, since
which time he has made his home in Dodge county. His education was acquired
by attendance at the district schools of Clyman township and his father carefully
trained him in the work of the fields, so that broad practical experience con-
stituted the basis of his success. When he began farming on his own account
at the age of twenty-five years he went to Iowa, where he was employed by others
for about fifteen months and with this exception he has continuously remained
in Dodge county. Upon his return he rented the old homestead and following
his marriage he operated the farm for his mother until her death, when he pur-
chased eighty acres of the other heirs in the property and came into possession
of the home place and afterward bought forty-five acres of the old Squire Atwater
farm. He cultivates the farm in a general way, raising the cereals best adapted
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
to ihe soil and climate, and he also makes a specialty of breeding Holstein cattle,
keeping some very fine stock. He is a member of the Holstein Association and
is well known among stock-raisers of this part of the state.
On the 25th of May, 1887, Mr. Drake was married to Miss Herminc Cruidt,
who was born in Lebanon township, Dodge county, a daughter of Adolph and
Emily Cruidt, who were natives of Germany and who became early settlers of
this county, living for many years in Lebanon township. The father has long
since passed away and during the latter part of her life the mother lived with
her children, passing away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Drake. To Mr.
and Mrs. Drake have been born three children: Edna, whose birth occurred
October 2, 1892; Raymond, born February 25, 1804; and Alice, born June 20,
1897. Mr. Drake has never allied himself with any of the political parties nor
has he sought or desired public office. He has felt that his time waS better spent
in devotion to his business interests and he is accounted one of the leading and
progressive farmers of his community, working along lines that bring to him
substantial success.
JOHN LOUIS ZIEGLER.
The M. Ziegler Brewing Company, Incorporated, is operating one oi the
most flourishing and prosperous establishments of the kind in Dodge county,
which, on account of its rapid growth is becoming a vital factor in the commer-
cial life of Mayville, Wisconsin. At its head and dominating its commercial
policy is John Louis Ziegler, who has been identified with the business since
he was fifteen years of age and is regarded as one of the representative busi-
ness men of Beaver Dam. He is himself an expert malster and is carrying on
the business which his father founded. He is no unworthy representative of
an important industry. He was born on October 24, 1858, in Mayville, Wis-
consin, and is a son of Mathew and Adelheid (Tannhauser) Ziegler. His father
was born in Bavaria, Germany, and came to America in September, 1858.
He located in Mayville, Wisconsin, and was connected with the brewing busi-
ness for a number of years. He bought an establishment of his own in 1873
and incorporated it under the name of the M. Ziegler Brewing Company. He
was active in its operation and controlled its policy until his death in Feb-
ruary, 1892. He was one of the prominent citizens of Mayville for many years
and active in political lines. He served as city treasurer with ability and en-
ergy, having been elected on the democratic ticket. He was an accomplished
musician having the true German love of that art and received his education
along this line in his native country. He was director of the first band in
Mayville, an organization justly noted in its day, and never gave up his interest
in music of this character. He was a member of the Roman Catholic church
and to this faith his wife also gave her allegiance. They were the parents of
eight children : Frank, deceased ; John Louis, the subject of this sketch ; Emil
P. ; Edward, who has also passed away ; Eugene, who resides in Mayville ;
Clotilda, the wife of Dr. Balg of Milwaukee, a doctor of languages; and Adel-
heid and Willibald, both of whom died in infancy.
John Louis Ziegler was educated in the public schools of Mayville, but his
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
opportunities along this line were limited. He laid aside his books at the age
of fourteen years and after spending one year in a tannery entered his father's
business in a minor capacity. His rise has been gradual. He has been identi-
fied with almost every position in the brewing industry and in this way has
gained a detailed knowledge of the various branches of the business. He is
now in active management of the M. Ziegler Brewing Company and the Louis
Ziegler Brewery, of Beaver Dam. He is president of the M. Ziegler Brewing
Company and seven years ago purchased the Goeggerle Brewery, which he
now owns and operates under the name of the Louis Ziegler Brewery.
On the 20th of October, 1880, Mr. Ziegler was united in marriage to Miss
Anna Greiner, a daughter of Joseph and Maria (Brunner) Greiner. Mrs.
Ziegler's parents were married on October 20, 1857, at Leroy, Wisconsin, and
made their home in that town for a number of years. The father came to Le-
roy, Wisconsin, in 1851. The mother is of German ancestry, her father,
Michael Brunner, coming from Bavaria, Germany, and settling in Leroy in
185 1. He died in that village in 1878, when he was eighty-nine years of
age. Joseph Greiner was a descendant of Jacob Greiner, who served in the
French army under Napoleon, was one of the survivors of Napoleon's army,
that went in to that memorable campaign of the Great Corsican against Russia
in 181 2. Joseph Greiner, the father of Mrs. Ziegler, participated in the Ameri-
can Civil war. He served in the Forty-fifth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry as
corporal and was honorably discharged at the end of the war. To Mr. and
Mrs. Ziegler have been born eight children : Cecilia and Ottilia, twins, the former
the wife of Felix Burger and the latter of Reinhold Ruedebusch; Mathew,
who died at the age of twelve years ; Lydia, now Mrs. John Brodesser, of Fox
Lake, Wisconsin ; Marie E., who died at the age of four years ; Adelaide, who
is twenty-three years of age and took a special course in music at Wayland
Academy; Louis J., aged nineteen; and Maria, who is fifteen years of age. Mr.
Ziegler is a firm believer in efficient and practical schooling and has given all
his children a high-school education. He is a member of the Roman Catholic
church and is widely known as a man of exemplary character. In his political
affiliations he is a consistent democrat and served one term as councilman. He
was fire chief of Mayville for a number of years and has always done his pub-
lic duty well when called upon. He is a good financier and business man and,
as the vears have gone by, has gradually built up a successful enterprise, the
expansion of which is going forward rapidly and is one of the important factors
in the commercial progress of Beaver Dam.
Joseph Metzger, Jr., is operating a fine farm of one hundred and thirty
acres which he rents from his father and in its management has met with a
degree of success which places him among the prosperous agriculturists of Dodge
county. He is a native son of Wisconsin, born in Clyman township, August 9,
18-6. his parents being Joseph and Margaret (Inglehart) Metzger. His father
was horn in Clyman township and has spent his entire life in this section. Most
JOSEPH METZGER, Jr.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
195
of his time has been given to fanning and he has now a fine property. The
mother of our subject was born in Hubbleton, Wisconsin, and remained in the
state until her death. After she passed away Joseph Metzger married Miss
Louise Seitz.
Joseph Metzger, Jr., was educated in the public schools of his native section
and when not engaged with his books aided his father with the work of the
farm. He remained upon the homestead until his marriage in 1904 and rented
from his father the property which he now operates. The farm contains one
hundred and thirty acres, all good land, and the buildings upon it are substantial
and in good repair. Mr. Metzger engages in general farming and conducts a
fine dairy, keeping a herd of graded cows for this purpose. He is one of the
able and progressive young farmers of this locality and his ability will undoubtedly
carry him forward to an important place in agricultural circles.
On November 1, 1904, Mr. Metzger married Miss Elizabeth Cain, who was
born in Lowell township, December 15, 1884. She is a daughter of Arthur and
Elizabeth (Boyle) Cain, the former born April 6, 1849, and the latter December
2, 1853. Tne father died February 10, 1908, and the mother on December 2,
1908. Mr. and Mrs. Metzger have three children: Gladys, who was born
August 11, 1905; Florence, whose birth occurred March 18, 1908; and George,
born on the 24th of December, 1909. Mr. Metzger gives his allegiance to the
democratic party and his religious views are in accord with the doctrines of the
Roman Catholic church. His entire life has been spent within the borders of
Dodge county and he enjoys the respect and confidence of all with whom busi-
ness or social relations have brought him into contact.
LOUIS E. SCHULZE.
Louis E. Schulze, who is the owner of an up-to-date cafe in Beaver Dam,
where he is carrying on a successful business, was born in the township of
Beaver Dam, Dodge county, Wisconsin, November 19, 1864. His parents were
Frederick A. and Augusta (Dornfeld) Schulze, both natives of Germany, who
came to Wisconsin in 1843 and settled in Lebanon, Dodge county. They were
the parents of nine children : Augusta, the widow of Fred Schwefel ; Fred, who
died in 1908; Louis E. ; Frank, who lives at Dallas, Oregon; Emil, of Beaver
Dam; William, of Spokane, Washington; Ernest, of Beaver Dam; Olga, the
wife of William S. Yemple, of Milwaukee; and Minnie, who lives in Milwaukee.
Louis E. Schulze was reared at home and educated in the public schools of
his native section. He laid aside his books at the age of seventeen and in the
following year went westward, locating at Watertown, South Dakota, where he
remained eighteen years or until 1900, when he came to Beaver Dam. On May
31, 1902, he bought out the interest of Conrad Daniels in one of the leading
cafes in Beaver Dam and assumed its management. The establishment is known
as the Schulzc-Zink Cafe, taking its name from Mr. Schulze's partner, Major
Philip J. Zink, who is also active and prominent in its management.
On January 25, 1894, Mr. Schulze was united in marriage to Miss Ida M.
Schultz, a daughter of William and Wilhelmina (Rubin) Schultz, of Horicon,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Dodge county, Wisconsin, in whose family were seven children: Henry, a
resident of Waupun, Wisconsin ; Herman, of Beaver Dam ; Ida M. and Emma,
twins, the former of whom is the wife of our subject ; Lydia and Edward, also
twins, the former of whom is Mrs. Meelke, of Waupun, and the latter a resident
of Beaver Dam ; and Anna, now Mrs. Grebel, of Trenton. Mr. and Mrs. Schulze
are the parents of three children: Lulu, bom August 5, 1895; Francis, whose
birth occurred February 4, 1900; and one who died in infancy.
In his political convictions Mr. Schulze is a democrat and has held the offices
of alderman in Beaver Dam, and county commissioner in Hamlin county, South
Dakota.
FREDERICK DEHNE.
One of the earliest settlers in Hustisford township and a man who was for
many years active in the milling business is Frederick Dehne, who is living prac-
tically retired in Hustisford, giving his attention to the management of a small
real-estate business. He is one of the many sturdy, reliable and able men whom
Germany has given to the state of Wisconsin and was born near Berlin, April
20, 1846. His parents, John M. and Sophia (Mechelke) Dehne, were natives
of the same section, the father born April 8, 181 1. and the mother about the
same year. John M. Dehne farmed in his native country for some time and
after his marriage became overseer of a large property. In 1856 he crossed the
Atlantic to America and came immediately to Wisconsin, where he settled one
and a half miles east of the village of Hustisford, on a farm. He found here
a tract of unbroken land and gave his entire attention to its clearing and develop-
ment. Gradually he developed a profitable agricultural enterprise.. Later he
extended his interests to include flour milling, in which he was interested for
some time. However, he never gave his personal attention to this work, giving
over the operation of his concern to his son, the subject of this review. About
1876 he sold his farm to another son and moved into the village, where he lived
retired until his death in 1897. He had survived his wife for ten years. They
were the parents of five children: Minnie, the widow of Christ Rohr, residing
in Hustisford; August and Louisa, both deceased; Frederick, of this review ; and
William, who resides in Milwaukee.
In the acquirement of an education Frederick Dehne attended the public
schools in Germany and later district school in Hustisford township. He re-
mained upon his father's farm until he was over twenty-one years of age and
then became connected with the milling business in Hustisford. He became promi-
nent and successful in this line of work and did not abandon his connection with
it until 1902. During this time he erected also a mill- at Juneau, which was
completed in 1878. Immediately afterward, however, the new roller system
came into general use and Mr. Dehne. not caring to install new machinery, sold
his mill in Juneau and returned to Hustisford. For some time he sold lumber
to the Roul Company of Beaver Dam, hauling it sometimes by team and some-
times shipping it by rail. Afterward, however, he abandoned this line of occu-
pation and gave his entire time to the operation of his flour mill, a sawmill and
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
197
a box factory in Hustisford. In 1902 he rented all of his milling property to
his two eldest sons and after eight years sold it to them. Since that time he
has been living practically retired, although he engages to some extent in the
real-estate business.
On the 5th of October, 1872, Mr. Dehne married Miss Minnie Rex. who was
born in Hubbard township, April 10, 1856. Her parents, Martin and Sophia
(Klemer) Rex, natives of Germany, came to America about the year 1855 and
located in Hubbard township, five miles north of Hustisford. Here they bought
a farm, upon which they continued to reside until their deaths. The father
passed away in 1877 and the mother in 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Dehne became the
parents of fourteen children: Louisa, the wife of Frank Herman, who is en-
gaged in farming in Idaho; Lydia, who is engaged in the millinery business at
West Bend; three who died in infancy; Emil, who was engaged in the electric
light business with his brother and passed away in 191 1 ; Oscar, who is operating
the electric light plant in Hustisford ; Alexander, a carpenter and property owner
in Waupun; Linda and Felix, both residing with their father; Frederick F.,
who will graduate from Marquette College with the class of 1913; Erna, who is
employed as a stenographer in West Bend; Ludelle, a teacher in the district
schools of this township ; and Willard, in the senior class of the high school at
Waupun. Mrs. Dehne died November 17, 191 i. Mr. Dehne is a member of
the Methodist Episcopal church of Hustisford although he was confirmed in
the Lutheran religion. He gives a general allegiance to the democratic party
but on all doubtful questions votes according to his personal conviction. He
served on the town board for a short time and for many years was a member of
the school board. He was also a trustee of the Lutheran church for a number
of years. Beyond this he has never held public office, preferring to devote his
entire time to his business affairs. In his early years he was an active member
of the Temple of Honor but at the present time has no fraternal affiliations. He
has lived for fifty-six years in Hustisford township and can remember the
time when there were only three or four houses in the town, when there were
no streets laid out and when stock ran unmolested through the village. He has
seen the section grow and develop along all lines and has been one of the most
active factors in the expansion, so that his retirement comes as a well earned
reward of useful and worthy work.
THOMAS P. PERKINS.
Among the men who in former years have been closely identified with busi-
ness and agricultural interests of Hustisford township and with the general en-
terprises which most vitally effect the advancement of the section is Thomas
P. Perkins, now living retired in the village of Hustisford. He was born in
the county of Cornwall, England, May 2, 1847, and is a son of John and Jane
(Prust) Perkins, both natives of Cornwall, England, the father born February
15, 1815, and the mother in June, 1820. In England the father followed the
trade of a maltster and brewer and did work as a blacksmith and wagon-maker be-
sides engaging in general farming. When he came to America in 1864 he settled
198
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
immediately in Hustisford, where he bought a blacksmith shop, which he con-
tinued to conduct for a number of years. Eventually, however, he turned over
the management of the enterprise to his son John and after spending a short
time in retirement in the village went with Thomas P. Perkins of this review
into Iowa, and remained five years. He died in the town of Hustisford, in
November, 1894. His wife had passed away several years previously, her
death having occurred in 1883. They were the parents of five children, of
whom Thomas P. Perkins is the only one now living.
In the acquirement of an education Mr. Perkins of this review attended
public school in England and later an academy in Exeter, Devonshire. When he
was seventeen years of age he came with his parents to America and for some
time worked as a farm hand in Du Page county, Illinois. After one year, how-
ever, he joined his father in Wisconsin and was employed by a farmer in
Lebanon township for two years. Later he worked for George Baker in Hustis-
ford township, spending the summers in this way and attending school in the
winter. After laying aside his books he went to Milwaukee, where he worked
as a collector for a few months, and then returned to Lebanon township, where
he farmed for his father-in-law for two summers. In the spring of 1871 he
purchased land in Wright county, Iowa, and continued to develop this prop-
erty for six years, after which he sold it at a profit and returned to Hustisford
township. Here he rented a farm from his father-in-law and moved upon it in
the spring of 1877. From that time until 1001 he steadily carried forward
the work of development and improvement, buying the farm in the meantime
and becoming widely recognized as an able and progressive agriculturist. In
1 901 he rented out his property and in the same year bought a home in Hustis-
ford, where he has since Uved retired. In the following year he sold his farm
but is still the owner of extensive tracts of land in various parts of Wisconsin.
From 1878 until the time he abandoned active life he was president of the Burr
Oak Cheese Factory and took an active part in the development of the enter-
prise.
On the 20th of April, 1871, Mr. Perkins married Miss Rachael R. Baker, who
was born in Cornwall, England, April 8, 1845. She is a daughter of Thomas
and Eliza (Baker) Baker, both natives of the same section, the father born
December 15, 1817, and the mother in 1815. They came to America in 1852
and located first in Canada, whence after one year they went to Chicago and
later to Walworth county, Wisconsin. Eventually, however, the father bought
a farm in Lebanon township, Dodge county, and continued to operate this until
his death, August 18, 1890. They were the parents of five children: Mary, now
Mrs. Edington, who resides in Augusta. Eau Claire county, Wisconsin ; Ann,
the wife of S. R. Jones, of Juneau ; Eliza, who became the wife of S. B. Jones,
of Hustisford township ■ Mrs. Perkins ; and Thomas W., who is engaged in the
liquor business in Hustisford. Mr. and Mrs. Perkins became the parents of
seven children : John, who was born June 22. 1872 and died October 8, 1884:
Elizabeth J., born May 3, 1873, who became the wife of Gustav Seefeldt, a
farmer of this township; Arthur, who was born on the 15th of January. 1878,
and died when about fourteen months of age; Thomas Baker, who was born
July 8, 1884, and who died in infancy; William H. t born June 23, 1891, who
resides with his parents; and two, who died in infancy.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
199
The family are devout adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church and
Mr. Perkins is serving as superintendent of the Sunday school. He gives his
allegiance to the republican party but never allows his personal convictions to
be influenced by party standards. In the course of years he has figured prom-
inently in the public life of his district and is at present justice of the peace
and notary public. In 1902 he was a candidate for the legislature but his
most important public work has been along lines of school expansion. For
eighteen years he was treasurer of his school district and during that time
did a great deal to improve the quality of instruction given to the children of
Hustisford by paying good salaries in order to secure competent teachers. Al-
though Mr. Perkins has given up active work, his interests are still closely
identified with the development of the section in which he has lived so many
years. In his retirement he can look back on an active life, connected always
with lasting, useful and honorable things, and can rest in the consciousness of
worthy work well done.
J. ELLIOT McCLURE.
J. Elliot McClure is one of the leading figures in banking circles of Beaver
Dam and is representative of the most modern, systematic and progressive
methods of operation in present-day financial institutions. He is a fine type of
efficient, reliable and trustworthy official, having a knowledge of the methods
of modern business finance and the ability to make a practical application of it
He has been identified with the First National Bank since its organization in
1 881 and has served first as assistant cashier and then as cashier of the institu-
tion, retaining his connection through various changes and reorganizations. He
was born in Chelsea, Vermont, on June 23, 1854, and is a son of Dr. Joseph F.
and Eunice (Denison) McClure, who came to Wisconsin in the fall of 1855,
settling in Beaver Dam. Here the father engaged in the general practice of
medicine for thirty-seven years, gaining prominence in this field of activity.
He died in 1892 in the sixty-eighth year of his age and his wife passed away
in the same year. Both are buried in Oakwood cemetery.
J. Elliot • McClure is the second in a family of six children. He received
his education in the. public schools of Beaver Dam where he has lived since he
was one year old and completed his studies in Wayland Academy. For one
winter he taught district school and followed the same line of occupation in the
city schools for one term. He then entered the office of the Beaver Dam Woolen
Mills as bookkeeper, holding this position for seven years. His banking career
began in 1881, when he became associated with the National Bank of Beaver
Dam. In 1884 this institution was reorganized under the name of the First
National Bank and for four years Mr. McClure served as assistant cashier. He
was later promoted to the position of cashier, which he has now filled for sixteen
years, doing able and effective work. In 1904, the institution was again reorgan-
ized under the name of the Old National Bank with Mr. McClure in his former
position, which he has occupied ever since that time.
In 1878 Mr. McClure was united in marriage to Miss Charra M. Daniels, a
200
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
daughter of the late Charles W. Daniels of Beaver Dam. Mrs. McClure was
born March 24, 1855, and is the youngest in a family of five children. Mr. and
Mrs. McClure have two sons : Joseph C, who is married and living in Omaha,
Nebraska, where he holds the position of assistant cashier in the United States
National Bank ; and Donald E., who is a teller in the Old National Bank of
Beaver Dam.
In his political affiliations Mr. McClure is a consistent democrat and takes
an active interest in local affairs. He served for six years as a member of the
common council and one year as superintendent of schools. He is interested in
education and was for four years clerk of the school board. He is a prominent
Mason, holding membership in the lodge, chapter, council and commandery and
is a charter member of the Royal Arcanum. His wife belongs to the Order of
the Eastern Star and is well known in social circles of Beaver Dam. She is
prominent in the Woman's Gub of that city and does active work in various
church societies. Mr. McClure is a stockholder in the Masonic Temple Corpora-
tion and has an interest in valuable business property in Beaver Dam. He gives
most of his attention, however, to the conduct of his duties as cashier of one
of the leading banks in the city. He is careful and conservative in financial mat-
ters, able, shrewd, and keen, thoroughly honest, reliable and trustworthy, well
versed in various departments of modern banking, careful but always progres-
sive — a fine type of a modern banker. In the conduct of the duties of his office
he exemplifies to a great extent the value of systematic and honest business prin-
ciples and has gained prosperity by adhering to them.
Edgar E. Parker is filling the position of assistant postmaster in Beaver
Dam, his native city. He was born August 13, 1862, of the marriage of William
L. and Emeline E. (Swift) Parker, both of whom were natives of New York.
They removed with their respective families to Ohio and in the latter state were
married. In 1*845 ,ne y came to Dodge county, which was then a frontier dis-
trict, and William L. Parker purchased eighty acres of government land in
Trenton township, becoming a pioneer settler of that district. They lived in true
frontier style. Before they could secure a door for their house, which was built
of logs, they hung a blanket over the aperture. The furnishings were most primi-
tive but the little cabin sheltered a large family and the years with their changed
conditions brought to them a fair measure of success. In the early days of their
residence here the Indians were very numerous, for they still used the forests
of the vicinity as their hunting grounds. Mr. Parker had to go to Milwaukee
for supplies and the trip was a long and arduous one because of the lack of good
roads. He was a blacksmith by trade and conducted one of the first shops of
Dodge county, but eventually he abandoned his trade and in 1859 removed to
Beaver Dam where he opened a livery barn and engaged in buying and selling
horses, becoming one of the first horse dealers in this part of the state. As the
years passed he came more and more into prominence through his political as
well as business activity. In politics he was an earnest democrat and in 1862
EDGAR E. PARKER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
203
and 1863 served as sheriff of Dodge county. He also held a number of city
offices, including that of alderman and member of the school board. When
Grover Cleveland was elected to the presidency Mr. Parker changed his political
views and was afterward a republican. In 1862 he purchased a farm just east
of the city and bred registered Merino sheep. For several years he was president
of the Wisconsin Wool Growers Association and at all times did what he could
to further the interests of the business. His fraternal relations were with the
Masonic lodge at Beaver Dam and in early life he was a member of the Meth-
odist church. He died in May, 1887, while his wife, who was a member of
the Universalist church, survived him until the 14th of February, 1905. In
their family were nine children of whom the first two died in infancy ; the third,
Addison M., has also passed away. The others are: William E., who is now
living retired in Beaver Dam ; C. S., who is a farmer of Guthrie Center, Iowa ;
Mrs. Charles Owen, also living in Guthrie Center, Iowa; Mrs. Thomas Taylor,
who died at Jasper, Minnesota ; Theodore, who died at the age of nine months ;
and Edgar E.
The last named is indebted to the public schools of Beaver Dam for the
educational opportunities which he enjoyed. As a young man he engaged in
the lightning rod business and in 1884 he entered the office of The Citizen, a
newspaper of Beaver Dam, there learning the printer's trade. In that connection
he gradually worked his way upward, eventually becoming editor and manager.
In February, 1910, he purchased The Citizen and in February of the following
year began the publication of a daily paper, the only one of the county. His
newspaper interests have made him widely known and in all of his jouralistic
connections he has manifested a spirit of marked progress and enterprise. On
the 1st of January, 1909, he was appointed assistant postmaster of Beaver
Dam under Mr. Hughes and has since been continuously connected with the
postoffice.
On the 3d of November, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Parker
and Miss Genevieve McGlashan, of this city, a daughter of R. E. and Emily
(Hall) McGlashan. The father came to Dodge county in 1843, being one of
the first to venture into this wilderness and plant the seeds of civilization here
on hitherto uncultivated soil. The mother was a daughter of M. B. Hall, also
one of the pioneer residents of Dodge county and one of the first county super-
intendents of the poor. Mr. McGlashan was a farmer by occupation and on his
arrival in the west secured government land. He then performed the arduous
task of converting it into rich fields, but at length his labors were rewarded in
abundant crops. He became quite successful as the years passed by and also
went steadily to the front in connection with public affairs, filling a number of
city offices. Throughout his life he displayed many of the sterling characteristics
of his Scotch ancestry. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Parker have been born two children :
Harry H., who is now managing editor of The Citizen; and Ruth E., who is
instructor in domestic science in the Beaver Dam High School. The family arc
very. widely and favorably known in this part of the state and their own home
has ever been justly celebrated for its warm-hearted hospitality. Mr. Parker is
a member of Dodge County Lodge, No. 72, F. & A. M. r and in his political
views is a republican. He has served as a member of the council and of the
board of supervisors and his position upon any vital question is never an equivo-
Vol n- 1 2
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cal one. He stands firmly in support of whatever he believes to be for the best
interests of the community and nothing can swerve him from the course which
he regards as right and just. In the newspaper field and in politics he has made
for himself a creditable name and position, yet there has been nothing spectacular
in his career, his course having been marked merely by that persistent energy
and developing ability which eventually bring success.
Samuel A. Holdridge is a well known representative of industrial and com-
mercial activity in Dodge county, being at the head of the S. A. Holdridge &
Sons Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, having their factory, however, at
Clyman, where they are engaged in the manufacture of chisels of every descrip-
tion. Their business is large and is constantly growing, the excellence of their
output insuring a continuance of their patronage.
Mr. Holdridge was born at Clayton, New York, October 2, 1845, a son of
Samuel A. and Elizabeth (Sager) Holdridge, both of whom were natives of
England. They came to America, however, in early life, settling at Clayton,
New York, where the father engaged in the real estate business until his death,
which occurred in 1845, three months before the birth of his son Samuel. The
mother continued to reside in Clayton for a number of years and then removed
to Warren, Pennsylvania.
Samuel A. Holdridge is the youngest of a family of five children. He was
largely reared in Wisconsin and attended school in Lodi and also to some extent
in Kansas. In early life he learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed
at Kilbourn, Prairie du Chien and other points in Wisconsin. He also worked
for three years in Pennsylvania and for two years in Columbus, Ohio. In 1869
he established a blacksmith shop in Lodi, where he remained until September
25, 1905, when he removed to Watertown but continued there for only a brief
period. He next came to Clyman and established his present business, carrying
on general blacksmithing and the manufacture of bush chisels. He organized
the S. A. Holdridge & Sons Company, which has offices in Milwaukee, while
the factory is located at Clyman. They manufacture every kind of chisel for
pneumatic hammers, using only the best tool steel on the American market in
the manufacture of chisels for stone, granite and marble work. Every tool fur-
nished by the firm is guaranteed to be perfect in temper and mechanical work-
manship and without flaws or defects in the steel. In addition to chisels they
manufacture more than a dozen kinds of hammers and various other kinds of
tools. These are put upon the market under the brand of "H. & H." and the
sale is constantly growing, for their output recommends itself to the public by
its excellence and durability. Mr. Holdridge is a man of marked business ability
and enterprise and whatever success has come to him is the reward of his earn-
est, persistent efforts.
On the 15th of March, 1870, Mr. Holdridge was united in marriage to Miss
Almira Woodley, who was born at Okec, Wisconsin, August 22. 1852, a daugh-
ter of John and Mary S. (Rodgers) Woodley, the former a native of Germany
SAMUEL A. HOLDRIDGE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
205
and the latter of England. The father always followed the occupation of farm-
ing, and on coming to Wisconsin in 1844 settled at Okee, where he secured a
tract of land and carried on general agricultural pursuits until his death, which
occurred in March, 1859. His wife survived him for a number of years, passing
away in 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Holdridge became the parents of seven children:
Harley A., a blacksmith and farmer residing at Firesteel, South Dakota ; Clarence
A., of Milwaukee, who is a traveling salesman for high speed steel ; May, the wife
of Robert Wilson, a farmer of Arlington, Wisconsin ; Ray S., who resides with
his parents; and Maud S., Louise and Claude, all deceased.
There is in the life history of Mr. Holdridge an interesting military chapter,
for in September, 1862, he enlisted for service in the Civil war as a member of
Company G, Twenty-third Wisconsin Regiment, with which he continued for
a year. Mr. Holdridge votes with the republican party and at Lodi served as
marshal, while at the present time he is filling the office of justice of the peace
at Clyman. His religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church and his life
is an honorable, upright one in harmony with his professions. He has ever
been industrious, diligent and determined and his life record is another proof
of the fact that success and an honorable name may be won simultaneously.
FREDERICK HERMAN VERG.
Frederick Herman Verg, numbered among the successful and enterprising
agriculturists of Clyman township, owns and operates a well improved farm of
forty acres and owns fifteen acres of marsh land. His birth occurred in Pom-
mern, Germany, on the 18th of April, 1850, his parents being August and Wil-
helmina (Schmidt) Verg, who were likewise natives of that country. The
father, a laborer, passed away in Germany. The mother, who emigrated to the
United States about 1883, made her home with our subject throughout the re-
mainder of her life, passing away in 1885.
Frederick Herman Verg obtained his education in the schools of his native
land and when a young man of twenty- four years became a driver of a post
or mail wagon, being thus employed for about seven years. In 1882, having
determined to try his fortune in the new world, he crossed the Atlantic to the
United States and came direct to Watertown, Dodge county, Wisconsin. Here
he worked in a brickyard during one summer and subsequently spent fifteen or
sixteen years in the railroad shops. Turning his attention to general agricul-
tural pursuits, he rented a farm of forty acres in Gyman township and in 1910
purchased the property, which has since remained in his possession. He has
improved the place until it is a modern and model farm and in its operation he
has won a gratifying measure of prosperity, annually gathering good crops.
He also owns fifteen acres of marsh land.
On the 12th of October, 1873, Mr Verg was united in marriage to Miss
Carolina Reeck, who was born in the province of Pommern, Germany, on the
16th of March, 1849, ner parents being Gottlieb and Christina (Kraft) Reeck,
also natives of that province. They spent their entire lives in the fatherland
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Verg have been born nine children, as follows: Emil, de
206
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ceased; August, an agriculturist residing at. Split Rock, Wisconsin; Bertha, who
is the wife of Charles Bischoff, a farmer of Clyman township; John, who follows
farming near Watertown; Herman and Otto, both of whom are laborers and
reside in Watertown ; Frank and Hattie, who are still at home ; and Edwin, who
has passed away.
Mr. Verg gives his political allegiance to the democracy but has never sought
nor desired office as a reward for his party fealty. His religious faith is indi-
cated by his membership in the Emanuel Lutheran church at Watertown. He
has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the United States,
for here he has found the opportunities which he sought and in their utilization
has gained a place among the substantial and esteemed citizens of his com-
munity.
There was no more highly respected and deservedly successful man in Beaver
Dam than Albert Clough, who died at his home, No. 312 East Maple avenue,
June 4, 1912. He had been a resident of this section since his childhood and
for almost forty years was recognized as an able, enterprising and progressive
agriculturist, who by hard work and well directed labor had highly developed
his. farm, and whose upright and straightforward character had gained himmany
friends. The last twenty years of his life were spent in Beaver Dam, where he
engaged in various business enterprises and where his death brought to a close
a useful career. He was born in Canaan, Vermont, November 24, 1840, a son of
Obadiah and Dorothy (Morrison) Clough, natives of that state. They came
to Wisconsin at an early date and settled in Rolling Prairie, where they lived
during the remainder of their lives. Both are buried in Highland cemetery.
Albert Clough was the third in a family of eleven children and was but a
child when he came to Wisconsin. He was educated in the district schools of
Dodge county and remained upon his father's farm until he was twenty-six
years of age. At that time he purchased a tract of land in Burnett township
and after cultivating it for a number of years bought eighteen acres on Rolling
Prairie, upon which he resided until the spring of 1892, when he sold the farm
and came to Beaver Dam. He sold his land in Burnett township in the spring
of the following year and definitely abandoned agricultural pursuits. For some
time after locating in this city he dealt in sand, getting his supply from Burnett
township. In 1895, however, his health failed and he lived in retirement until
his death, which occurred on June 4, 1912, when he was seventy-two years of
age. He was buried in Oakwood cemetery.
On the 8th of September, 1866, Mr. Clough was united in marriage to Miss
Lucinda Stoddard, who was born August 16, 1847, in Prairie du Sac, a daughter
of Asa and Philenda (Frizzle) Stoddard, natives of New Hampshire, who came
west and settled in Prairie du Sac at an early date. Mr. and Mrs. Clough adopted
a son, Walter. He married Miss Dora Gilmore and resides with his wife and
son in Milledgeville, Illinois.
ALBERT CLOUGH.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
207
Mr. Clough gave his allegiance to the republican party. He was a devout
Methodist and an attendant of the First Methodist church of Beaver Dam and
was a member and trustee of the church board. His wife is still an active sup-
porter of this religion and is a member of the Ladies Aid and Foreign Mission-
ary Societies. Mr. Clough was actively interested in the growth and develop-
ment of Beaver Dam, in an industrial and social way, and did his utmost to pro-
mote its progress. His success is evidenced by the importance of the place which
he attained among his fellow citizens and the genuine and widespread regret
which attended his death.
JOHN JOSEPH SCHUMACHER.
John Joseph Schumacher has been engaged in the shoemaking business in
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, since 1885 and during the time has met with well de-
served success, which is the natural result of his industry and ability. He is
in all essential respects a self-made man and to a great degree responsible for
his present prosperity. He started in the enterprise which he now conducts with
a capital of thirty-five cents in money and twenty dollars worth of leather, but
with an efficient equipment in the knowledge of his trade and in the qualities
of perseverance and industry. He was born on December 29, 1862, in Juneau,
Wisconsin, and is a son of Peter and Margaret (Oakum) Schumacher. His
father came to Wisconsin and settled in Fond du Lac in 1851 and was one of
the first men to engage in the occupation of shoemaking in that city. He opened
a small shop and built up a flourishing trade by hard work and continuous labor.
He moved to Juneau in 1856 and followed his chosen occupation in that city
until he went to Fox Lake in 1864 where he continued shoemaking until his
death. He was one of the well known and prosperous citizens of this city and one
of its prosperous tradesmen. He was consistently democratic in his political
affiliations and was a loyal supporter of General Bragg. He gave his allegiance
to the Roman Catholic church. Peter Schumacher was twice married. His
first wife was Miss Margaret Oakum and to this union were born nine chil-
dren : Liza ; Nick ; John, of this review ; Belle ; Mary ; Eva ; Agnes ; Margaret ; and
John P. Peter Schumacher's second union was with Miss Annie Golling, by
whom he had three children, Mary, George and Henry.
John Schumacher was reared at home and educated until his twelfth year
in the public schools of Fox Lake. He learned the shoemaking trade from his
father and the equipment which he received was thorough and efficient. He
followed this line of occupation at home until he was twenty-one years of age,
gaining a practical working knowledge of its details and building up an ex-
tensive patronage. He later removed to Beaver Dam and then to Minneapolis
and other places, subsequently, however, definitely taking up his residence in
Beaver Dam and in 1885 started in the shoemaking business independently.
His venture was begun upon a very small scale. His capital consisted of twenty
dollars worth of leather, a few tools and thirty-five cents in money. He had,
however, a fund of ambition and determination combined with an efficient
knowledge of the details of his trade and upon this foundation he built his
208
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
prosperity. lie abandoned his independent business eventually to become con-
nected with the concern known as Wilk Brothers after which he spent a short
time in the clothing business. He later formed a partnership and was successful
in the conduct of an enterprise operating under the name of Rice & Schumacher,
which he subsequently sold in order to start in the shoe business on Spring
street, Beaver Dam, where he is now conducting an extensive and rapidly
growing enterprise. His success is based on the solid foundation of thorough
efficiency and practical knowledge. He learned the details of his trade in his
early boyhood and became conversant with its intricacies by personal experi-
ence. He is now regarded as one of the leading shoemakers in Beaver Dam
where his business qualifications and honorable standing are well known.
Mr. Schumacher has been twice married. His first union was with Miss
Eudora Clark, a daughter of John C. and Ida (Stephenson) Clark. She was
one of four children born to her parents, the others being Minnie, Alice, and
Frank. To this union were born four children : Earl, a well known violinist in
Beaver Dam, where he has gained a remarkable musical reputation at eighteen
years of age ; Margaret, a student in the high school at Beaver Dam ; Evelyn, who
is pursuing her studies in the public schools ; and Gladys, who is deceased. Mr.
Schumacher's second wife was in her maidenhood Miss Emma Steltzer. She
was one of five children, the others being: John, William, Robert, and Lena.
To this union was born one child, Virginia li , now living in Beaver Dam.
In his political affiliations Mr. Schumacher is a stanch republican and has
been loyal in his allegiance to the principles of this party for twenty years. He
is serving at the present time as school commissioner and is doing efficient and
practical work. Fraternally he is identified as past grand with the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows and is affiliated with the Beavers. He is secretary in
the Equitable Fraternal Union and was formerly secretary of the Modern Wood-
men of America, also holding membership in the Royal Neighbors. In 1896
he belonged to the Wisconsin National Guard but has since resigned from his
regiment.
Mr. Schumacher is one of the leading men in his line of occupation in
Beaver Dam and though his life has been quiet and his career unassuming he has
attained success in a degree which illustrates the power of detail and industry
in the search for prosperity.
ALBERT AUGUST J EC HE.
Seventy-nine acres of well improved land located near Juneau in Dodge
county, entitle Albert August Jeche to be ranked among the enterprising and
representative citizens of his section. He was born in Hustisford township,
June 12, 1872, a son of William and Louisa (Wegener) Jeche, natives of Ger-
many, the father being born June 22, 1834, and the mother, August 14, 1842.
William Jeche crossed the Atlantic when he was a young man and located first
in Lebanon township. Dodge county, where he resided with his parents upon a
farm. He later became the proprietor of a tract of land in Hustisford township
and he resided thereon until his death, which occurred September 6, 1904. His
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
209
wife died at Richwood two years later. The father of our subject was well
known in local politics and served in various official capacities. He was chairman
of his township for twenty-five years and served for two terms in the state legis-
lature. For several years he was collector for the Oshkosh Insane Asylum,
located in Hustisford township, and was also a member of the local school board.
Albert A. Jeche received his education in the public and German schools
of Hubbard township and remained at home until he married. Afterward he
rented land in Hustisford township and after four years purchased the property
upon which he resides. In all business and agricultural affairs he is alert and
enterprising and has met with the measure of success which rewards earnest,
persistent and well directed labor. .
On November 14, 1901, Mr. Jeche was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Henkel, who was born in Hustisford township, July 21, 1881, a daughter of
William and Louisa (Zuhner) Henkel, natives of Germany, who were among
the very early settlers in that section. They are living retired in the village of
Hustisford. Mr. and Mrs. Jeche have two children : Raymond, who was born
December 3, 1902; and Willard, whose birth occurred April 18, 1904. The
family belong to the Lutheran church.
Mr. Jeche is independent in his political views and never seeks public office,
preferring to give his entire attention to the management of his farm. His
influence is important in the agricultural community in which he lives, for his
methods have always been progressive and systematic, and his standards high.
FRANCIS J. METZGER, D. D. S.
Dr. Francis J. Metzger, well known in the dental profession of Beaver Dam,
was born in Lowell township, Wisconsin, September 20, 1878. His paternal
grandfather founded the family in America, coming to Wisconsin in early pio-
neer times. He was a successful agriculturist. In politics he was identified with
the democratic party and was a member of the Catholic church. Dr. Metzger
is a son of John and Anna (Meyers) Metzger. His father was a farmer and
was prosperous and successful in this line of activity. He and his wife were
the parents of six children: Francis J., the subject of this sketch; Raymond F.,
who is farming near Lowell, Wisconsin; Marcellus E., who maintains his resi-
dence in Seattle, Washington; Agnes M., who resides in Clyman, Wisconsin,
with her mother; John, who lives in Milwaukee; and Gilbert, a resident of
Lowell.
Dr. Metzger received his education in the public schools of Wisconsin,
attending district school No. 7, in Lowell township. He later took a course in
Sacred Heart College of Watertown, Wisconsin, and was graduated from the
dental department of Marquette University, Milwaukee, in 1902. In April,
1907, he located in Beaver Dam for practice and from the very beginning his
success has been gratifying. His skill is widely recognized and he commands
the respect and esteem of his patients, fellow citizens and members of the dental
fraternity. He is an expert in oral surgery, having taken special courses in this
branch of medicine while pursuing his studies in the Marquette University.
210
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On October 7, 1903, Dr. Mctzger was united in marriage to Miss Viola I.
Casey, a daughter of James D. Casey of Watertown, Wisconsin. Mrs. Metzger
is one of nine children, the others being: Irvin T., who lives in Missoula, Mon-
tana; Loretta M., the wife of Dr. G. I. Wenker, of Milwaukee; Oliver J., of
Watertown; Euphemia, deceased; Eveline; Estelle; Simon; and Cyrus.
Dr. Metzger is not affiliated with any of the political parties and follows the
dictates of his conscience and judgment in supporting measures and candidates
he considers worthy of success. He belongs to the Wisonsin State Dental So-
ciety and is also a member of the alumni of Marquette University. He affili-
ates with the Roman Catholic church and is connected with the Knights of
Columbus and the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. He has gained success and
prosperity in his chosen career. He is efficient, progressive and of liberal mind,
which are the qualities upon which rests his success.
Peter Pfeffer is a leading figure in the clothing business of Beaver Dam
where he owns and operates a large store, meeting with gratifying success be-
cause of his honorable business methods, his earnest desire to please his patrons
and his close application to business. He was born on June 19, 1864, in the
Rhine Province, Germany, and is a son of Conrad Pfeffer. His father served
in the German army during the war of the revolution and served his term with
great distinction. Peter Pfeffer was one of six children, the others being Adam,
Carl, Elizabeth, Minna and Anna,' all of whom are residing in Germany.
Peter Pfeffer was educated in his native country and remained there until
he was eighteen years of age. Upon reaching America he located immediately
in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. He worked upon a farm belonging to John Rose
for a short time before he entered the employ of A. P. Lawrence. He remained
in this position until the owner of the business disposed of his holdings and then
Mr. Pfeffer accepted a position under his successor. He remained with the firm
of Shepherd & Brown until the summer of 1886, when he removed to Chicago
to become identified with the dry-goods business with the firm of Storm & Hill.
The partners sold out in 1891 and Mr. Pfeffer changed his position, accepting
employment with the J. V. Farwell Company. He continued in this position
until December 1, 1895, and his duties gave him a practical and detailed knowl-
edge of the methods of commercial enterprise on a large scale which today
is a valuable asset to him in the conduct of his own flourishing establishment.
He came to Beaver Dam on the 1st of December, 1895, an d entered into part-
nership with Mr. Zander in the operation of a general merchandise store under
the firm name of Zander & Pfeffer. This association continued until January
1, 191 1, when Peter Pfeffer withdrew from the firm and started in business inde-
pendently. He opened his present establishment on March 18, 191 1, in the
Masonic Temple. He carries the most complete and up-to-date line of clothing
in the city and in its operation and general business methods compares favor-
ably .with establishments of the same kind in cities the size of Chicago. His
stock is kept constantly up-to-date and complete. The equipment of the build-
PETER PFEFFER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
211
ing is modern in every detail and the store itself is furnished along artistic lines.
Much of this success is due to the alert and enterprising methods which have
distinguished Mr. Pfeffer's business policies, and his gratifying patronage which
has been built up by industry and activity is increasing discernibly. Mr. Pfeffer
gives almost his entire time and attention to the various details connected with
his clothing store and does not take a very active part in other commercial
affairs. He is however, a director in the Woolen Manufacturing Company and
has been an influential factor in the growth of that concern. On October 24,
1895, Mr. Pfeffer was united in marriage to Miss Olga Zander, and they are
the parents of two children: J. Eugene, born August 30, 1896, who is attending
Beaver Dam high school ; and Agnes, born on the 30th of August, 1897, who is
also pursuing her studies in that same institution.
In his political views Mr. Pfeffer keeps himself independent of party lines.
He is an active factor in local affairs and served one term as a member of the
city council. He is a blue lodge Mason and also belongs to the chapter. He is
a member of Beaver Dam Commandery No. 37, Knights Templar. He is also
prominent in the Wisconsin consistory and is a member of Tripoli Temple,
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He is a man of undoubted probity of character
and this qualification has influenced and increased the volume of his business,
his establishment having the aspect of a modern metropolitan enterprise and
being one of the features in the growth of Beaver Dam.
ELGIN T. COCHRANE.
Elgin T. Cochrane was born in Marquette county, Wisconsin, July 25, 1857.
His parents were H. B. and Mary E. (Boothe) Cochrane who came to this state
at an early date. The grandfather of our subject, Robert Cochrane, lived in
Westfield, New York, and made his home in that city during his life. H. B.
Cochrane located in Wisconsin in 1844 and farmed near Waupun until 1850.
In that year he removed to Westfield, where he engaged in the milling, fanning
and sawmill business until 1866. He then moved upon a farm located between
Beaver Dam and Waupun and was successfully engaged in agriculture until his
death in 1893. He and his wife were the parents of seven children: Leslie B.,
who died in infancy; Emerson, who also passed away at an early age; Leslie
E., who lives on Deer Lake, South Dakota; Elgin T., the subject of this review;
Merle R. ; Jessie M., who resides in Beaver Dam; and Ella D., who passed away
when she was twenty years of age.
Elgin T. Cochrane received his early education in the public schools of
3eaver Dam and later attended Wayland Academy. He laid aside his books
at the age of nineteen years and taught a district school for two terms. He
later engaged in the jewelry business in Waupun. He eventually removed to
Jackson, Minnesota, where he established himself in business, coming two years
later to Fox Lake, Wisconsin. He conducted a jewelry store there for three
years and later removed to Manning, Iowa, and thence to Sheldon, that state.
He abandoned this line of business after a time, in order to devote himself to
agriculture and was successful and prosperous in this line of work. Upon his
212
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
father's death he came to Beaver Dam, in 1894, and has since made his home
in this city. During the period of his residence here he has gained a reputa-
tion for public-spirited interest in all movements looking toward municipal
progress and advancement and is favorably known as a man who unites in his
character business principles of a high order with rare qualities of citizenship.
In politics he is progressive but is not affiliated with any political organization.
HENRY FREBER.
Among those who have passed away and who in life enjoyed the full re-
spect and good-will of those who knew them was Henry Freber, long identified
with farming interests in this county. He was born in Massachusetts, Decem-
ber 20, 1839, a son of Charles and Margaret (Frank) Freber, who were na-
tives of Germany but in early life came to the United States, settling in Massa-
chusetts, where they remained until after the birth of their son Henry. About
1848 they came west to Dodge county, taking up their abode in Clyman town-
ship at a period when there were no railroads in this district and when all pro-
duce was marketed in Milwaukee, where supplies were purchased. Charles
Freber secured a tract of uncultivated land, and with characteristic energy be-
gan its development and converted it into a valuable farm. He and his wife
continued to reside throughout the remaining days on the old homestead, which
adjoins the farm now occupied by Mrs. Henry Freber. The father never cared
for public office but devoted his entire time and attention to his farming pur-
suits until his death in 1873. His wife survived him for more than two dec-
ades, passing away in 1894. They were the parents of six children: Henry,
Elizabeth and Mary, all of whom are deceased; Katharine, the wife of Edward
Webber, a farmer residing in the village of Clyman; William, a retired farmer
living in Watertown, Wisconsin; and Christina, deceased.
Henry Freber was a young lad at the time the family removed to Wisconsin
and in pursuance of an education attended the district schools of Clyman town-
ship. He remained upon the home farm with the exception of a short time
which he spent in Nebraska. In 1861 he married and during the war times he
removed to that state but shortly thereafter his wife died there and he returned
to Wisconsin, making his home again with his father. Two children were born
by the first marriage: Lenora, whose birth occurred February 22, 1862, and who
is the wife of John Fahl, a farmer residing in Canada; and Louisa, born No-
vember 24, 1863, who is the wife of Paul Sommerfeld, a farmer and lumber
dealer of Saskatoon, Canada. Following the death of his first wife Mr. Freber
married Miss Minnie Young and following this event lived with his parents
for about five years. At the end of that period his father gave him the farm
upon which the widow of our subject now resides. He erected substantial
buildings here, improved the place in many ways and continued the cultivation
of his fields to the time of his death. He practically spent his entire life since
his early boyhood in this section with the exception of the short period he spent
in Nebraska during the Civil war.
The marriage of Henry Freber to Miss Minnie Young, his second wife, took
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
213
place in December, 1866. She was born in Nassau, Germany, ' February 19,
1846, and is a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Meyer) Young, also natives of
the fatherland. They came to the United States in 1855, settling on a farm
south of Reeseville, this county, where the remainder of their days were passed,
the father's death occurring in 1878, while the mother died in 1894. They were
the parents of five children: Mrs. Freber; Lewis, who resides on the old home-
stead; Katharine, the wife of John Goebel, a farmer living near Reeseville; Mary,
the wife of Michael Benninger, living on a farm near Reeseville; and Margaret,
the wife of Michael Kohn, also a farmer near Reeseville. To the second mar-
riage of Mr. Freber were born eleven children. Ella, whose birth occurred Sep-
tember 18, 1868, is the wife of Hans Nelson, a retired farmer living at Windom,
Minnesota. Albert, born March 19, 1870, follows farming in Canada. Kath-
arine, born October 22, 187 1, is the wife of Emil Kressine, who is living re-
tired in Clyman. Frederick, bom February 16, 1873, is a farmer residing near
Lowell. Mary, born January 2, 1875, is the wife of Otto .Winkelman, living
retired at Watertown. Rosetta, born July 14, 1876, died December 20, 1881.
Henry, born January 8, 1879, is a machinist living in Beaver Dam. Minnie, a
twin sister of Henry, is engaged in teaching in Gettysburg, South Dakota. Dora,
born January 10, 1882, is the wife of Otto Zimmerman, a farmer of Canada.
Roy, born August 20, 1884, is looking after his mother's landed interests in
Canada. George, born August 22, 1886, is yet at home. All of the children
were born in Clyman township, where Mrs. Freber expects to spend the balance
of her life. Here she owns and occupies a farm of one hundred and thirty
acres of fine land which returns to her a gratifying income. Mr. Freber passed
away August 13, 1905, and left behind him many friends, who esteemed him
highly for his sterling worth. He voted with the democratic party and served as
town treasurer and supervisor. His life was in some respects quiet and un-
eventful but it is such worthy and faithful citizens who constitute the real sta-
bility of any community. He was industrious and energetic, devoted to his
familv and faithful to his friends.
JOHN ANDREW WELSCH.
John Andrew Welsch, who is conducting a saloon at No. 401 South Spring
street, Beaver Dam, was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on July 7, 1859, and is a
son of John and Kathrine (Drummer) Welsch, natives of Bavaria, Germany.
They came to America in 1847, landing in Pennsylvania, where they remained
until i860, in which year they came to Dodge county where the father died in
April, 1884. He is buried in Leroy. His wife survives him and makes her
home in that city. John Welsch is the third in the family of five children. He
was only one year old when he came to Wisconsin and has spent his entire life
since that time in this state. He was educated in the public schools of Leroy
and remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-six years of age.
He then purchased one hundred acres of land in Leroy township and upon this
farm he resided until 1894, coming in that year to Beaver Dam. Here he estab-
lished himself in the saloon business at No. 401 South Spring street and has
been successful and prosperous along this line.
214
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On November 17, 1886, Mr. Welsch was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Weix, a daughter of Lawrence and Barbara (Bachuber) Weix, residents of Le-
roy. Mrs. Welsch is the seventh in a family of thirteen children and was born
in 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Welsch are the parents of eight children: Timothy J.,
who is private secretary for Congressman M. E. Burke; Hilda, who resides at
home and is employed as a clerk in a confectionery store ; Hedwig, who is en-
gaged in the dressmaking business; Helen, who is employed as a bookkeeper in
a telephone company ; and Katherine, Alphonse, Anna, and John, all of whom
reside at home. All of the children were educated in St. Mary's parochial school
and in the Beaver Dam high school. Timothy is a graduate of Wayland Acad-
emy. The family belong to the Roman Catholic church and Mr. Welsch is prom-
inent in many societies affiliated with the church. He is a member of Beaver
Dam Lodge, No. 48, Catholic Knights of Wisconsin, and was trustee of that or-
ganization for three years. He held the same position for six years in St. Peter's
Society and is now active in the affairs of that body. He also belongs to the
Fraternal Order of Eagles. His business success and his energy and enterprise
have made him well known in Beaver Dam. He is interested in the future of
the city and anxious to do his part in promoting its development. He is a stock-
holder in the German National Bank and owns property at No. 130 East Mills
street, in addition to his business and residence property. He is well known in
local democratic politics and served as clerk in school district No. 8, LeRoy
township, for six years. For two years he was supervisor of Leroy and is now
holding the same position in the Second ward of Beaver Dam in the eleventh
vear of his service. He never seeks to evade the obligations of his citizenship
and is interested in the growth and prosperity of his section. His standards are
modern and progressive and his energies, well applied and directed, hav e brought
his gratifying success.
Arthur D. Chandler, who is the assistant cashier of the First National
Bank of Beaver Dam, to which position he was called in 1891, and also one of
the directors of the bank, was born in this city, November 27, 1870, his par-
ents being George W. and Marie (Hambright) Chandler. The father was a
native of New York and the mother of Niles, Michigan, whence she came with
her parents to Dodge county. George W. Chandler arrived in Beaver Dam
at an early day and although he had engaged in the woolen manufacturing
business in the east he afterward turned his attention to agricultural pursuits
in the west. He died April 6, 1894, and his widow now resides in Beaver Dam.
By his first marriage the father had two children, both of whom arc now de-
ceased. Of his marriage to Marie Hambright there were born four sons and
a daughter, all of whom survive.
Arthur B. Chandler, the fourth in order of birth, acquired a public school
education, supplemented by a course of study in the Milwaukee Business Col-
lege. He was afterward with the Wadhams Oil Company of Milwaukee, and
on the 1st of July, 1891, came to Beaver Dam, where he entered the First Na-
ARTHUR B. CHANDLER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
215
tional Bank as bookkeeper. He has since been connected with this institution
and almost immediately was made assistant cashier, in which capacity he has
since served, proving a capable and popular official who has made many friends
among the patrons of the bank of which he is also a director. For the post
six months he has been acting cashier of the bank and his labors have made
him widely known in financial circles in Dodge county.
Mr. Chandler is also postmaster of Beaver Dam, having been called to the
office on the 1st of April, 191 1, following his appointment on the 17th of Febru-
ary of the same year. He was city treasurer in 1897 and in both offices has been
loyal to the trust reposed in him, discharging his duties with marked prompt-
ness and fidelity. The present postoffice building has been erected since he was
appointed postmaster. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and is now
a member of Beaver Dam Commandery, K. T. The craft finds in him a worthy
representative, always true to its teachings, and his trustworthiness in every rela-
tion of life places him in a conspicuous and enviable position.
ABEL PARK LAWRENCE.
Abel Park Lawrence is one of the pioneer business men in Beaver Dam
and since 1854 has been connected with various commercial enterprises in this
city. He established one of the first grocery stores and has been successful as a
general merchant, giving his attention at the present time to fire insurance and
gardening. He is well and favorably known in the city in which he has resided
since he was twenty-two years of age and is recognized as a man of honor-
able and straightforward standards, uniform courtesy and unusual business in-
telligence. He was born in Pepperell, Massachusetts, May 1, 1832, and is a son
of Abel and Nancy (Jewett) Lawrence, natives of that section. His father
died in the state in which he was born and the mother passed away in Beaver
Dam.
Abel Lawrence was the younger in a family of two children. He was edu-
cated in the district schools of New England and attended an academy in Mas-
sachusetts for four terms. His father died when our subject was only ten
years of age, and he remained with his mother until he was twenty-two years
of age, coming to Wisconsin in 1854 and settling in Beaver Dam, where he
worked as a clerk for Hoyt & Smith, general merchants of that city. He was
engaged in this capacity for only a short time, resigning his position in order
to teach school. After being engaged for four months in this occupation he
returned to his former position and clerked until he returned to Massachusetts,
where he remained until April, of the following year. He then came back to
Beaver Dam and in 1856 established a grocery store. He carried a full line
of staple and fancy goods and did not sell intoxicating liquors. He was suc-
cessful and his business increased yearly until 1863, when his building was
destroyed by fire. He then erected a brick building, adding a general merchan-
dise department to his enterprise, which he conducted along modern and pro-
gressive lines until 1884. In that year he disposed of his interests to Shepard
& McFadden and went to South Dakota, where he took up one hundred and
216
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
sixty acres of government land with the intention of following farming. In
October of the same year, however, he was accidentally wounded by bird shot
and was disabled for three years. In the meantime he had returned to Beaver
Dam and established himself in the insurance business, in which line he was
active and successful for two years. In 1893 he opened another grocery store"
upon Spring street and this enterprise he conducted until 1909, when he sold
out and engaged in his present line of occupation, writing fire insurance. He
also does gardening on a small scale. He is one of the well known and popu-
lar residents of Beaver Dam and is living in a house at No. 125 North Third
street, which he erected in 1858. He is practically retired and is giving his time
to the management of his business interests.
On December 28, 1857, Mr. Lawrence was united in marriage to Miss Rachel
R. Smith, a daughter of Edward and Anna (Schrigler) Smith, natives of
Derbyshire, England. They came to America in 185 1 and settled in Juneau,
Wisconsin, moving later to Waushara county, where they died. Mrs. Law-
rence is the fourth in a family of twelve children and was born on the 29th of
March, 1839. She and her husband became the parents of five children:
Frank E., who is married and has one daughter, who is residing in South Da-
kota; Mary E., who married Bayard T. Boylan, of South Dakota, by whom she
has three children; Lucy M., who became the wife of James Wilson, a native
of Florida, residing in Denver, by whom she has five children; Carrie J., who
married Arthur Wilson, by whom she has one son ; and Rachel, who died in
infancy. Mr. Lawrence has given all of his children an excellent education.
His three daughters are graduates of the Beaver Dam high school and Ella
has taken a special course in painting, for which she has a decided talent. Our
subject and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on Decem-
ber 28, 1907, but unfortunately only two of the children were able to be pres-
ent. He is one of the early settlers in Beaver Dam and his friends are num-
bered among the representative and highly esteemed citizens of that city.
Mr. Lawrence has always been a republican and has voted that ticket in
presidential elections since the time when Fremont was a candidate. He served
for three years on the board of aldermen in Beaver Dam and did excellent and
able work. He and his family are devout adherents of the Methodist Episcopal
church and Mr. Lawrence is a member of the board of trustees. He takes an
active interest in religious affairs and for twenty-one years was superintendent
of the Sunday school. His wife belongs to the Ladies Aid Society and held
the office of president in that organization for several years. She also be-
longs to the Eastern Star and to the Rebekahs and was for some time treas-
urer of the grand lodge of the Independent Order of Good Templars. Mr.
Lawrence is prominent in fraternal circles of the city, holding membership in
the Masonic order and in the Odd Fellows. He is now practically retired from
active life and is giving his attention to the supervision of his town property
and his eighty acres of farm land outside of the city. Upon this he raises fruits
and vegetables and is unusually successful as an amateur gardener. For well
over half a century Mr. Lawrence has been identified with the commercial, po-
litical and social upbuilding of the city of which he is an honored resident. He
is a true type of the modern business man, shrewd and keen, and with a dis-
criminating knowledge of values and an appreciation of changing conditions.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
217
He is a liberal man, desirous of obtaining his own rights and mindful of those
of others, unquestioned in his integrity and honorable in his business and per-
sonal life. Upon these qualities he has built up a substantial prosperity and
has gained the respect and esteem of his many friends.
RUDOLPH F. MENGEL.
In the death of Rudolph F. Mengel Dodge county lost a citizen of sterling
worth. He had many excellent traits of character which endeared him to his
fellow townsmen, winning for him their confidence and high regard. He made
farming his life work and was born November 17, 1849, upon the farm which
is now owned by his widow and upon which he lived until his death, July 3,
1910. His parents were John and Elizabeth (Franck) Mengel, both of whom
were born in the Rhine Province, Germany. At nineteen years of age the father
came to the United States and during pioneer days in Dodge county he and his
wife took up their abode on government land here. The latter died when her
son Rudolph was only about fifteen months old. The parents had resided in
Massachusetts for a number of years and were married in that state but in 1843
came to Wisconsin, casting in their lot with the pioneer settlers who were re-
claiming this region for the purposes of civilization. John Mengel secured a
tract of wild land which he cleared and developed and upon which he resided
until his death, which occurred about 1870. For his second wife he chose Mar-
garet Shaller, who survived him for ten years. The mother of Rudolph Mengel
passed away in 1850, leaving two children, the elder being Elizabeth, the wife
of Gustavus Flohr, a farmer residing in Emmet township. By the second mar-
riage were born two daughters; Paulina, the wife of J. Leiske, a farmer living
at Franklin, Minnesota ; and Katie L., the wife of Frank Amtsbauer, also fol-
lowing farming near Franklin.
Although Rudolph Mengel lost his mother when less than two years of age,
his father's second wife proved indeed a kind and faithful mother to him. In
his youthful days he was sent to the district schools and habits of industry and
energy were developed through his work upon the home farm. He remained
thereon throughout his entire life and when twenty-six years of age, on the
20th of April, 1875, he married Miss Julia Creydt, who was born in Lebanon
township, Dodge county, December 24, 1852, a daughter of Adolph and Amelia
(Flohr) Creydt, both of whom were natives of Hanover, Germany, the latter
born August 24, 1832, and the former January 14, 1819. When fourteen years
of age, the father was apprenticed to a prominent merchant of the old country,
with whom he continued until twenty-nine years of age, when he came to the
new world, making his way direct to Lebanon, Wisconsin, where his brother was
then living. He at once began farming, purchasing a tract of land in partner-
ship with his brother. The business relation between them existed until the
death of Adolph Creydt in 1879. His wife survived him for a long period,
passing away May 25, 1903. Mrs. Mengel is the eldest of their nine children and
by her marriage she became the mother of one daughter, Clara E., who was
born April 17, 1877, and died May 13, 1911, of pneumonia, following measles.
218 HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
She had begun a course in nursing and was for a year and a hal f in the hospital
at Beloit. She was ill only ten days and her death was a great blow to her
mother and many friends. She held a high place in the esteem of her asso-
ciates, loved the work and entered upon its duties enthusiastically. Her noble
character and cheerful disposition won her many friends who sincerely. mourned
her demise.
Following his marriage Rudolph Mengel took his bride to the old homestead
farm, whereon he resided continuously until his death. He was the owner of
one hundred and fifty-four acres in that tract of land. He carefully and sys-
tematically tilled his fields, which he brought to a high state of cultivation. He
made his home upon that farm for sixty-one years, seven months and six days,
or through the entire period of his span of life. He was highly regarded by
his fellow townsmen, who frequently gave indication of their confidence in him
by entrusting him with public offices. He was a man of sterling character, up-
right in all of his dealings, hating shams and avoiding any show of hypocrisy.
Charitable and religious causes found in him a friend and his support was ever
given to worthy public measures which had for their object the welfare and
upbuilding of the county. His life was indeed honorable and upright and the
deepest regret was felt at his passing because he had greatly endeared himself
to all with whom he was associated.
REV. DANIEL WOODWARD.
The Rev. Daniel Woodward after giving eighteen years of his life to the
ministry in the Methodist Episcopal church was by virtue of his fitness for the
position appointed by Governor McGovern, on November 7, 1911, warden of
the State Penitentiary at Waupun, where he now is engaged in the discharge
of his official duties. He was born in Waushara county, Wisconsin, September
25, 1864, and is a son of John B. and Sarah E. (Moore) Woodward. The
parents were of Scotch descent and natives of Massachusetts. The father with
his family removed to Wisconsin in the early '50s and settled on an unimproved
farm located near Wild Rose, Wisconsin, where he continued to live for fifty
years, during which time he was engaged in agricultural pursuits. Before com-
ing to Wisconsin he was employed in one of the woolen mills at Lowell, Massa-
chusetts. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted in 1863 in Company
K, Thirty-seventh Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and continued with his com-
mand until peace was established, when he was mustered out in May, 1865.
lie was an active and loyal republican and was chairman of his township for
twenty-five years, during which time he also held several other township offices.
He and his wife were members of the Methodist church. In their family were
seven sons : J. M., who is a retired minister and resides at Fort Atkinson,
Wisconsin; H. L. and I. N., both of Wild Rose; Daniel, of this review; W. W.,
who is a minister of the Baptist church and resides at Wild Rose; T. J., also
residing at Wild Rose; and Orville, who died at the age of four years.
Daniel Woodward was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools of Wild Rose. On entering the ministry of the Methodist
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
221
Episcopal church he pursued the required four years' course of conference
studies, after which he was admitted to full membership in the Wisconsin con-
ference and for eighteen years he gave his undivided tine and attention to the
work of the ministry and in that calling he was known throughout the territory
governed by the Wisconsin conference as one of the loyal and efficient preachers
and pastors of that ministerial body. During his time of service as a member
of the conference he served in the appointments of Spring Lake, Stockbridge,
Waupun, Randolph, Merrill and Sturgeon Bay. While in the ministry he took
the position that local option was preferable to county option and for his con-
victions in that particular he was criticised by the Methodist membership and
suspended from pulpit service by the presiding elder of the district in which he
served. Rev. Woodward at the ensuing annual conference carried his case be-
fore the members of that body and was reinstated. He then tendered his resig-
nation as a member of that body, which was accepted. Three weeks later he
organized the Congregational church at Omro, Wisconsin, and by the articles
of incorporation became its pastor. In June, 1912, he was recognized by the
Winnebago association of the regular Congregational church of Wisconsin, and
received into full fellowship as a Congregational clergyman;
During the campaign and preceding the election of Governor McGovern,
Rev. Woodward devoted much of his time and attention to campaign work and
as a clear thinker and effective speaker he was one of the influential public men
of his state and rendered material assistance to the success of the republican
party in this state at that election. Shortly after the election of Governor Mc-
Govern Rev. Woodward received the appointment as a member of the board
of control and later as warden of the State Penitentiary. He has the distinction
of being the only ex-minister in the United States as warden in charge of a
state penal institution. He is proving the wisdom of Governor McGovern's
appointment to that office by the gratifying success which has attended his ad-
ministration of the prison affairs. Since he assumed incumbency of the office
Rev. Woodward has abolished the ancient and barbarous custom of hair clip*
ping, has supplied the prisoners with better and more abundant food and has
established a well directed correspondence course of study for the convicts. He
has also put in a new library which cost five hundred dollars and has increased
the school year to eight months for each convict pupil, and also increased the
hours of study from one to one and one-half per day, and has also arranged to
take prisoners out for exercise and recreation on Sunday afternoons. He also
receives all prisoners personally when they come and personally dismisses them
when their time expires, advising and assisting them to a higher ideal of life
in every possible way. He has established a rule by which every prisoner
is entitled to a private interview with the warden at any time they may desire.
These reformatory measures have had their effect for good upon the prisoners
and Mr. Woodward has been highly complimented for his vigorous and humane
administration of the responsible office in which he is now serving the best
interests of the state.
Reverend Woodward has his fraternal relations with the Masonic order and
belongs to both the lodge and chapter. He is also a member of the Odd Fellows
lodge. As a campaign speaker he first entered public political work during the
first campaign of President McKinley, since which time he has continued to
Tot 11- is
222
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
take a vital and interested part in the political movements of his state and
country. He is "to the manner born," as his father has long been known as one
of the solid, patriotic citizens of Waushara county, in which he has lived for
more than fifty years. Rev. Woodward is an intelligent and effective platform
speaker and a man who is known to fearlessly declare his convictions at all
times without regard to personal interest or public approval. For him to be-
lieve a thing to be right is sufficient reason to announce the fact and he has often
been misunderstood and suffered by the bold and fearless declaration of his
principles. Such men as a rule are safe as leaders of public measures from the
fact that their convictions are the result of careful study and investigation of
the matter in hand.
ALBERT N. METZGER.
Albert N. Metzger is the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and
sixty-six acres and its neat and thrifty appearance indicates his careful supervi-
sion and practical methods. This property lies in Clyman township, where
occurred the birth of Mr. Metzger, March 5, 1863. His parents were Joseph and
Mary (Spahn) Metzger, who were natives of Alsace, Germany. The father
came of French parentage and when about eighteen or twenty years of age he
sailed for the new world, taking up his abode in Clyman township, Dodge county,
where he purchased a farm one and a half miles west of Clyman. He cleared
and improved the land and continued its cultivation until his life's labors were
ended in death on the 25th of November, 1887. His wife had passed away about
twenty-five years before. Joseph Metzger became an extensive landowner and
his labors and efforts were a valued element in the improvement and develop-
ment of the district in which he lived. After the death of his first wife he
married again and there were three sons born of the second marriage, while
Albert N. Metzger is the youngest son born of the father's first marriage, by
which there was a family of twelve children.
In the schools of Clyman and of Lowell townships Albert N. Metzger pur-
sued his education and received practical training in the work of the home farm
through the assistance which he rendered his father from the time he was old
enough to handle the plow until his father's death. He was married, on the 9th
of October, 1888, to Miss Amelia Motl, who was born near Watertown, July
10, 1866, a daughter of Frank and Rosalia (Roffice) Motl, who were natives of
Bohemia, and became early settlers of Wisconsin, arriving in Dodge county in
the latter '50s. For a number of years they resided upon a farm and then re-
moved to Watertown, where they lived for some years but afterward took up
their abode on a farm in Clyman township, where the mother passed away.
The father afterward returned to Watertown, where he still makes his home.
He was married again but his second wife is also deceased. In his family were
eight children, Mrs. Metzger being the fourth in order of birth.
Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Metiger began their domestic life
upon a farm in Clyman township which he purchased. After spending three
years there his health failed him and he sold that property, removing to the vil-
lage of Clyman, where he remained for a year. He next bought a farm near
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY 223
Lowell and successfully cultivated it until 1904, when he sold that property
and purchased his present place, comprising one hundred and sixty-six acres
of highly improved land, on which he carries on general fanning. His fields
are well tilled, his fences and buildings are kept in good repair and the neat and
thrifty appearance of his place indicates him to be a practical and progressive
agriculturist.
Mr. and Mrs. Metzger are the parents of three children. Lawrence, born
July 11, 1889, married Anna Casper and follows farming at Clyman. Elenora,
born December 9, 1890, and Leo, born November 30, 1896, are both at home.
The parents are members of the Roman Catholic church in Clyman. In politics
Mr. Metzger is a democrat and his fellow townsmen, appreciating his worth and
ability, have elected him to several local offices. He acted as assessor and also
represented the village of Lowell on the county board of supervisors, of which
he was chairman. He is ever interested in the welfare and upbuilding of town
and county and supports any measure or movement which he believes will con-
tribute to the growth and prosperity of the district.
ELLEN LYONS.
The work which Ellen Lyons has accomplished in the development of her
fine farm on section 22, Clyman township, does much to disprove the old idea
that business ability and executive force are monopolized by men. For many
years she has given her entire attention to the improvement of her property and
has become recognized as one of the most able agriculturists in this part of Wis-
consin. She was born in New York, March 14, 1850, and is a daughter of Pat-
rick and Catherine (McCormick) Lyons. The father was a native of Dublin,
Ireland, born in 1817, and came to America when he was fourteen years of age.
In New York he learned the tinsmith's trade and worked at it until he was thirty
years of age. In that year he came as a pioneer to Wisconsin, settling in Clyman
township at a time when there were very few settlers in this part of the state.
The land which he purchased was covered with a dense growth of timber which
he was obliged to clear before the work of development could be begun. Acre
by acre, it was brought under the plow and gradually by hard and unremitting
work Mr. Lyons turned a wilderness into fertile fields. He suffered many
hardships in the early days of his settlement here. For some time he was
obliged to haul all of his grain to Milwaukee by ox team, but gradually condi-
tions improved and civilization became slowly established. Mr. Lyons devoted
his entire time to farming, in which he engaged until his death, which occurred
when he was eighty-one years of age. His wife was a native of County Long-
ford, Ireland, and she also has passed away. To their union were born eight
children : Thomas, whose birth occurred in New York ; Eliza, born in New York,
who is married and lives in Ogden, Utah; Ellen, our subject; Annie, a resident
of Minnesota ; Catherine, who was born in Clyman township, August 28, 1854,
and who makes her home with her sister Ellen; Emma, also born in Clyman
township, who lives in Milwaukee; Marguerite, a native of the same section.
224
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
who married William Whitton and makes her home with the subject of this
review; and Patrick, who is married and resides in Minnesota.
After the death of Patrick Lyons the farm was operated by one of his sons
for seven years, when it came into possession of Ellen and Catherine Lyons,
who have resided upon the property since that time. Since she has assumed con-
trol Miss Lyons has made substantial improvements, has built a fine new barn
and a long stone house for her chickens. She does farming and is extensively
interested in dairying, keeping a fine grade of cows for this purpose. She has
followed steadily the most practical and systematic methods and has been re-
warded for her care and labor by the excellent condition of her property which
is one of the most attractive farms in this locality. She is a woman of rare ex-
ecutive force, a daughter of a Wisconsin pioneer, with much of her father's
sturdy power and she has become recognized in the course of years as one of
the most successful agriculturists in this part of the county.
AUGUST A. GENRICH.
August A. Genrich owns one hundred and thirty-three acres of land two and
one-half miles north of Juneau and upon this property is carrying on farming,
gaining prosperity which is the natural result of practical application. He was
born in Pomerania, Germany, May 8, 1866, a son of Frank and Tena (Litz)
Genrich, natives of that province. They came to America in 1867, settling first
in Milwaukee and coming from that city to Dodge county, where they located
on a farm at Rolling Prairie. Upon this land they remained until 1874, when
they moved to Nebraska and there resided for three years, at the end of which
time they returned to Rolling Prairie and remained there for a number of years.
The father owns extensive property upon what is known as Clayson Prairie
and gives a general supervision to its management although he has retired from
active farm life and lives in Beaver Dam.
August A. Genrich is the eldest of a family of eight children. He attended
the district schools and lived at home until he was twenty-five years of age. At
that time he rented a farm near Burnett and engaged in general agricultural
pursuits. After two years he bought land in Burnett township, which he oper-
ated for nine years, being obliged to move to Beaver Dam at the end of that
time on account of Mrs. Genrich's failing health. In that city he engaged in
the teaming business for five years and then purchased land near Juneau, upon
which he resides. He owns one hundred and thirty-three acres, highly im-
proved and equipped with the latest farm machinery and devotes his entire
time to the management and development of his property. He owes his pros-
perity to long familiarity with soil conditions, to personal experience in the
fields and to the intelligence which directs his activities, and reaps its results
in increasingly abundant harvests.
On September 2, 1891, Mr. Genrich married Miss Anna Schroeder, who
was born February 12, 1871, a daughter of Henry and Hannah (Kaske)
Schroeder, natives of Pomerania, Germany, who came to America about 1870
and settled in Rolling Prairie, where they have since resided. The father is a
Digitized by LjOOQIc
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
225
grain buyer for the Appleton Malting Company and owns large tracts of valu-
able property in the township, his sons having assumed charge of the opera-
tion of his farms. Mr. and Mrs. Genrich have three children: Wright Henry,
born December 17, 1893; Mabel, born July 31, 1896; and Gladys, born Sep-
tember 6, 1898. The family belong to the Lutheran church.
Mr. Genrich is interested in the Lutheran Insurance Company at Appleton.
He is one of the sterling and substantial citizens of Dodge county, who seeks
success in a field which has repaid his labors by increasing prosperity. .
JOHN M. MANLEY.
John M. Manley, proprietor of the Manley Hotel at Beaver Dam, is a native
son of the city, having been born September 8, 1873. His parents were Michael
and Anna Manley, natives of Ireland, who came from that country to Wiscon-
sin and were married in this state. The father passed away in 1905 and the
mother died in the following year.
John M. Manley was one of nine children born to his parents. He was edu-
cated in the public schools of his native city and when he had laid aside his books
worked at various occupations for some time. He began to gain hotel experi-
ence as an employe in the old Clark House and after twelve years of this activity
became proprietor of the Manley Hotel in December, 1909, and has been associ-
ated with its management and operation since that time. He is the sole owner
of the establishment and during only three years has made it the leading hotel
in the city. It is conducted conservatively and systematically and has been made
comfortable and modern in every detail. It is operated always with a view to
the needs and convenience of its guests and has prospered because of the effici-
ency of its manager and by reason of the upright and honorable business stand-
ards which he advocates and follows.
Mr. Manley was married in 1903 to Miss Grace Hammer, a daughter of Jo-
seph Hammer, of Beaver Dam. He is well known in the Fraternal Order of
Eagles and has many friends in Beaver Dam, who have known him since his
childhood.
DELOS B. TERRY, D. D. S.
Delos B. Terry, D. D. S., who since 1897 has engaged in the practice of
dentistry in Beaver Dam, occupying a foremost place in the ranks of the pro-
fession, was born on September 14, 1862, and is a son of Caleb M. and Martha
T. Terry. He received his education in the public schools of Lowell, Wiscon-
sin, and was graduated from the Chicago Dental College in 1897. He has had
to work for every advantage he has had in life and has attained his present posi-
tion by conquering obstacles and overcoming difficulties. He worked during the
summers when he was acquiring his education and went to school in the winter
months. When he reached the age of twenty-one years, he had become suffici-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ently proficient to teach school, and supported himself in this way until he entered
the Chicago Dental College, from which he graduated with the degree of D. D.
S. He located immediately for practice in Beaver Dam and has been increas-
ingly successful with every year. He had married at the age of twenty-eight years
and it was not until he was thirty-one that he definitely determined upon the
practice of dentistry. His professional course was taken when he was thirty-
two years of age and was acquired with his own means. The qualities which
marked him as a boy and a young man have been characteristic of his later life
and have won him wide reputation as a dentist and recognition as an unusual and
determined man.
Dr. Terry was married September 17, 1890, to Miss Ursula Gibson, a daughter
of John W. and Rosetta Gibson of Lowell, Wisconsin. Mrs. Terry is a charming
and well informed woman and has been a valuable aid to her husband in his
career. In his political affiliations Dr. Terry is an independent democrat, giving
a general allegiance to the party principles but reserving his freedom of judg-
ment. He is interested in the opportunities of education in the state of Wisconsin
and is serving at the present time as president of the school board. He affiliates
with the Methodist church. The place which he holds among his colleagues and
fellow citizens is an enviable one, and his success must be the more satisfactory to
him, as he has won it for himself. The result reflects credit upon him as an in-
dividual and ranks him among successful men by reason of the distinction.
ARTHUR A. MARQUARDT.
Arthur A. Marquardt, one of the best known and most progressive representa-
tives of farming interests in Hubbard township, applies to the duties which devolve
upon him in the development of one hundred and thirty-five acres of land the
liberal education which he has acquired and which makes his labors more effect-
ive and far reaching. He was born in Williamstown, Dodge county, March 18,
1888, and is a son of William Marquardt, a native of Germany, born December
8, i860. His father came to America when a young man and, although he had
learned the machinist's trade in his native country, never engaged in it in the
United States, giving his entire time to agricultural pursuits. By earnest and per-
sistent work he gained success and a competence which enabled him to retire from
active life. lie built a fine home in the city of Horicon and in it resides with his
wife, who was in her maidenhood Miss Josephine Brummund, born in Herman
township, Dodge county, March 8, 1862.
In the acquirement of an education Arthur A. Marquardt attended the Ger-
man schools at Horicon and was also a pupil in the Horicon public schools. This
he supplemented by a course in the International Correspondence School and by
hard work in the night school at Horicon, thus completing an excellent general
education. He worked upon the home farm until his marriage on the 8th of
June. 191 1 . and then rented from his father the one hundred and thirty-five acres
which he operates. He has devoted special attention to dairying, keeping a fine
herd of graded Holstein cows for this purpose. He is a young man and has given
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY 227
evidence of an energetic and progressive spirit which will undoubtedly carry him
forward into important relations with agricultural interests of this section.
Mr. Marquardt's wife was in her maidenhood Miss Ella Buss, and she was
born in Hubbard township, January 9, 1887. Her parents, August and Anna
(Hilgendorf) Buss, natives of Germany, are living in Hubbard township. Mr.
and Mrs. Marquardt have one daughter, Esther, who was born June 30, 1912.
Mr. Marquardt gives his allegiance to the republican party and is active in his
support of measures in which he believes, although he never seeks public office.
His religious views are in accord with those of the Lutheran church. His many
sterling traits have won him high regard and, although still young, he is one of
the successful and prominent citizens of this part of Wisconsin.
JOHN HENRY SHERMAN, M. D.
Dr. John H. Sherman is a native son of. Beaver Dam and is now living
retired in that city after an active and useful life as a general medical practi-
tioner. He was born on October 22, 1863, and is a son of John and Eva
(Schwerts) Sherman, natives of Saxe-Coburg, Germany. Their marriage
occurred in Oswego, New York, about the year 1848 and shortly afterward
they came to Wisconsin, settling in Beaver Dam. The father was a cooper by
trade and established a factory in this city, where he specialized in the making
of flour barrels. He engaged in this line of occupation until 1868. when he
disposed of his business. Two years afterward he became associated with
T. C. Zanden in the general merchandise business and the partnership continued
for about fifteen years to their mutual advantage. At the end of that time Mr.
Sherman sold his interest to Mr. Zanden and from that time until his death
lived practically retired. He passed away in 1902, when he was seventy-six
years old, having survived his wife by two years, her death having occurred
when she had reached the age of seventy. Both are buried in Oakwood
cemetery.
Dr. Sherman was the youngest in a family of seven children. He was
educated in the public schools of his native city and was graduated from the
pharmaceutical department of the University of Wisconsin with the class of
1884. He later entered Rush Medical College of Chicago, receiving the degree
of M. D. in 1890. He afterward spent two years in the Milwaukee Hospital,
gaining valuable practical experience. At the end of that time he located for
practice in Fountain City, where for two years he was successful and pros-
perous. He then moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and after a short time in that
city went to Chicago. When he left Illinois he settled in Beaver Dam and from
the very beginning his success was gratifying, based as it was upon the firm
foundation of scientific efficiency. He has now given up his active duties and
has been living retired in this city since 1900.
In November, 1899, Dr. Sherman was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Ann Sherman, a daughter of Paul and Mary Sherman, natives of Saxe-Coburg,
Germany. The parents were married in New York state and spent their entire
lives in that state. Mrs. Sherman was the fifth in a family of seven children
and her birth occurred on the 14th of February, 1863.
228
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Dr. Sherman has always been a democrat in his political views but beyond
voting the party ticket takes no active part in public affairs. He has many friends
in the city in which he resides. He and his wife are members of the First Pres-
byterian church and the Doctor is a member of the board of trustees of that-
organization.
The cheese-making industry as well as agricultural interests in Dodge county
have profited by the activities of Christ Wenger, owner of three cheese factories
and of one of the model farms of Hubbard township. Throughout the district
Mr. Wenger is recognized as one of the men whose work contributes to the
development of this district, and he is highly esteemed for his substantial char-
acter, his straightforward methods and his honesty of purpose. A native of
Switzerland, Mr. Wenger was born April 6, 1868, and is a son of Christ and
Marie Wenger, natives of that country. His father was born in 1830 and passed
away in 1892. His wife is also deceased.
Christ Wenger attended school in Switzerland and remained in that coun-
try until 1893, when he came to America and worked as a cheese-maker. He
had learned cheese-making in Switzerland when a boy and worked at that
employment in his native country from early youth. That his activities along
this line have been successful is evidenced by the fact that he owns three large
cheese factories, one located a mile and a half east of Horicon, one five and
a half milts southeast of Mayville and the other upon his farm in Hubbard
township. Laudable ambition has directed his labors along this line and has
combined with his fine business intelligence and his effective executive force to
place him among the business men of Dodge county, whose work has been most
directly beneficial to the general interests of the section. Of late years Mr.
Wenger has put managers in his different factories in order that he may have
more time to give to the development of his farm of sixty-four acres. This
property he purchased five years ago and since that time has made many sub-
stantial improvements in buildings and equipment. He erected recently a fine
new barn and a comfortable house, as well as the newest of his cheese factories.
Upon the property he does general farming, giving special attention to dairy-
ing, keeping for the latter purpose graded and registered Holstein cattle, and
both branches of his work yield him a fine annual income. Mr. Wenger is
intensely practical in all that he undertakes and the careful consideration which
he gives to every phase of a subject before he definitely forms his plans has
been one of the features of his success. He keeps in touch with the people of
the country who have interests similar to his own through his membership in
the Cheese Makers Association and thus is familiar with every new development
in methods or in the scientific aspects of his business.
Mr. Wenger married, on the i6th of April, 1900, Miss Magdalina Gertsch,
who was born December 24. 1874, a daughter of Gotlieb and Marguerite
(Gobeli) Gertsch, natives of Switzerland, both of whom passed away in that
country. Mr. and Mrs. Wenger have three children. Bertha. Emma and Edward,
CHRIST WENGER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
229
all of whom attend the district school. Mr. Wenger does not give his allegiance
to any political party, voting independently. Throughout the nineteen years of
his residence in this section he has labored effectively for the agricultural
and industrial development and by reason of his business enterprise, his integ-
rity and his sterling personal worth has taken a high place among the class # of
men whom America welcomes so eagerly as adopted citizens.
WILLIAM FERDINAND KRAETZNER.
William Ferdinand Kraetzner, who has until recently operated a farm in Oak
Grove township, moved in 1912 upon one hundred and fifty-six acres in Lowell
township, which he is now cultivating, and is ranked among the progressive and
enterprising agriculturists of Dodge county. His birth occurred June 4, 1865, in
Theresa township, and he is a son of Ferdinand and Carolina (Belling) Kraetz-
ner, natives of Germany. The father was born in Tajnsdorf, November 4, 1827,
and the mother in Schulzendorf, November 11, 1832. They crossed the Atlantic
to America in 1854 and settled upon a farm in Theresa township, on which the
father died in February, 1907, and the mother in March of the following year.
William Kraetzner attended district school in Theresa township and aided
his father in the work of the farm until his marriage after which he purchased
the homestead and began an independent agricultural career. He first had
eighty-six acres of highly improved land in excellent condition which he oper-
ated as a stock farm until 1908, when he bought his Oak Grovi farm. Upon
this property he made extensive improvements, built new buildings and installed
modern equipment, making it one of the most attractive and valuable farms in
the neighborhood. In 1912 he sold this place and bought one hundred and
fifty-six acres in Lowell township, to which he has just moved.
On May 11, 1905, Mr. Kraetzner was united in marriage to Miss Lorenda
Benzel, who was born in Theresa township, February 25, 1883, a daughter of
Emil and Bertha (Seling) Benzel, the former born in Germany and the latter
in Theresa township. Mr. and Mrs. Kraetzner have three children: Irvin, born
November 7, 1906; Selma, born in April, 1910; and Elmer, whose birth occured
in March, 1912. The family belong to the Lutheran church at Horicon. Mr.
Kraetzner gives his allegience to the republican party but has never been active
in public life, preferring to devote his entire attention to the management of his .
farm.
HERMAN BARTELT.
The farming interests of Oak Grove township find a worthy representative
in Herman Bartelt, who owns and cultivates ninety-four acres of land. His
birth occurred in Hubbard township. Dodge county, on the 28th of August,
1882, his parents being August and Augusta (Kraus) Bartelt, more extended
mention of whom is made on another page of this work in connection with the
230
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
sketch of Frank S. Bartelt, a brother of our subject. He obtained his educa-
tion in the district schools of Oak Grove township and also attended a German
school in Juneau during one winter. When not busy with his text-books he
assisted in the operation of the home farm, thus early becoming familiar with
th| duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. On attaining his
majority he purchased the old homestead and was busily engaged in its oper-
ation until 1909, when he disposed of the property and bought the farm of
ninety-four acres on which he has resided to the present time. The land is all
under a high state of cultivation and the neat and thrifty appearance of the
place gives evidence of the supervision of a practical and progressive owner.
Mr. Bartelt cultivates the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and is also
engaged in dairying to some extent, marketing his product at the Essman cheese
factory adjoining his farm, in which he is a stockholder.
On the 20th of October, 1907, Mr. Bartelt was joined in wedlock to Miss
Olga Stark, who was born in Hubbard township, this county, on the 15th of
August, 1887, her parents being Carl and Clara (Youlka) Stark, natives of
Germany. They became early settlers of Hubbard township, Dodge county,
Wisconsin, where Mr. Stark purchased land and followed farming. In 1901
he took up his abode in Hustisford township, where he has remained to the
present time, being still busily engaged in the work of the fields.
Politically Mr. Bartelt is a republican, while his religious faith is indicated
by his membership in the Lutheran church at Juneau. Both he and his wife
have always lived in this county and their circle of friends here is a wide one.
A young man of enterprise and ability, he has already won a creditable meas-
ure of prosj :rity and the future is bright with promise.
WILL L. JONES, D. D. S.
Dr. Will L. Jones, a prominent dentist in Beaver Dam, was born at Racine,
Wisconsin, November ir, 1866, and is a son of Thomas and Winifred (Lewis)
Jones. The father came from his native country, Wales, to Wisconsin at an early
date and followed his trade of tailor in Racine for a number of years. He sub-
sequently moved to Fox Lake, where he died in 1895, having survived his wife,
who passed away in 1887. He was an adherent of the Presbyterian church and
well known as a man of exemplary character.
Dr. Jones was reared at home and educated in the public schools of Fox Lake
and attended Fox Lake College. He was graduated from the Chicago College
of Dental Surgery in 1890 being the valedictorian of his class and located imme-
diately for practice in Beaver Dam and has been increasingly successful since
that time.
On November 4, 1891, Dr. Jones was united in marriage to Miss Grace G.
Gorton, a daughter of Profes'sor O. N. and Harriet M. (Palmer) Gorton, of
Fox Lake. Dr. Jones' first wife died in 1907 and on February 14, 191 1, our
subject was again married, his second union being with Miss Emma Alene
Gorton, a -sister of his former wife. To the first union was born a daughter,
Harriet Winifred. She is a graduate of Wayland Academy of 1910 and received
from the University of Chicago in June, 1912, the title of associate with honors.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
231
Mrs. Jones' brother, Dr. F. T. Gorton, is a practicing physician of Portage,
Wisconsin.
In his political views Dr. Jones is a consistent republican and has served
as school commissioner for several terms and as president of the school board
with great energy and talent He is also on the public library board and his
cooperation is never sought in vain for any movement looking toward educa-
tional expansion. He is a member of the Wisconsin State Dental Society and
belongs to Dodge County Lodge, No. 72, F. & A. M., of which organization
he is a past master, and is likewise a member of the Chapter. He was president
of the Masonic Temple Building Association and has done valuable and im-
portant work in this capacity. He brings to the practice of his profession an
efficient equipment in the technical and mechanical details of dentistry, guided
by business judgment and practical common sense, and the high quality of his
work has increased his patronage every year, until today he is prominent and
successful in his profession.
LEWIS J. YOUNG.
Lewis J. Young, who for a long period was connected with agricultural
pursuits in Dodge county, is now a factor in the commercial life of Clyman,
where he is engaged in the hardware and implement business as a partner of
Harry L. Morgan. He was born in Rubicon township, this county, May 5,
1884, a son of Lewis C. and Abbie Jane (Mann) Young, the former a native of
Rochester, New York, and the latter of Neosho, this county. In early man-
hood the father engaged in teaching school but later engaged in tally work for'
a large lumber concern. He was a small boy when he came to Wisconsin with
his parents, who located in Rubicon township, where eventually Lewis C. Young
became a landowner with extensive holdings. He carefully and systematically
developed his interests and continued to engage in farming to the time of his
death, although he spent the winter months during the latter part of his life in
California and the south, his death occurring in the year 1905. He had for
five years survived his wife, who passed away in the year 1900.
Lewis J. Young was the fourth in order of birth in their family of six chil-
dren and at the usual age began his education as a pupil in the district schools
of Rubicon township. He also studied for a time at Hartford and when seven-
teen years of age he assumed the management of the old homestead property,
comprising two hundred and thirty-three acres on sections 33 and 34, Rubicon
township. He proved competent to manage farming interests of this character
and when twenty-two years of age he bought the old home property, which he
continued to further develop and cultivate until 1909. He then rented it and
has since engaged in merchandising, while in 191 1 he sold the home farm in
order to concentrate his energies more largely upon his present business. Two
years before he had joined H. L. Morgan in the hardware trade and is now
junior partner in the firm of Morgan & Young, who are extensively engaged
in dealing in farm machinery, buggies, binders, twine, harness, paints, oils, sport-
ing goods, gasoline engines and pumps. They also carry an extensive stock of
232
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
shelf and heavy hardware, and do pump repairing, conduct a garage and carry
on a general livery business.
On the 25th of November, 1908, Mr. Young was married to Miss Mabel
Jessie Bunnell, and they have two children: Ennison Mann, born in February,
1910; and Lewis Russell, born on the 1st of September, 1912. Mr. Young
holds membership with the Eagles and the Knights of Pythias. He is a young
man of determination and energy, who carries forward to successful completion
whatever he undertakes. Clyman numbers him among her valued citizens be-
cause of his progressive spirit.
Isadore Wilk is a partner in the firm of Wilk Brothers, who established the
first exclusively men's clothing store in Beaver Dam, beginning business in 1889,
since which time they have steadily advanced in popular favor until their estab-
lishment is now accorded an extensive patronage and brings to them a gratify-
ing measure of prosperity. Isadore Wilk was born in Russia, in i860, his
parents being Aaron and Helene Wilk. The father, before going to Russia had
lived in Germany until 1856, and about 1868, returned to Germany, following
the death of his wife, which occurred in Russia. He was married again in the
fatherland and continued to make his home in that country where he was en-
gaged in the lumber business.
Isadore Wilk was largely reared in Germany and .in 1880, when twenty
years of age, came to the United States, having determined to try his fortune
on this side of the Atlantic because of the favorable reports which he heard
concerning the business opportunites of the United States. He made his way
at once to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he engaged in peddling goods in the
city for about thirteen months. The year after his arrival he was joined by
his brother Herman and as partners they opened a store in Minneapolis for the
sale of men's furnishing goods, but sold out eighteen months later. Isadore
Wilk then established a dairy farm near the city and conducted it for twenty-
one months. While on the farm he was married, on the 7th of June, 1885, to
Miss Helene Werhlanske. Her father, a native of Poland, went to Germany
as a boy and there married the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sass. They
lived and died in Germany but their daughter Helene came to the United States
in her girlhood. She had been a schoolmate of Mr. Wilk in Germany and came
to the new world as his betrothed, the marriage being celebrated soon after her
arrival. For more than a quarter of a century they traveled life's journey hap-
pily together and were then separated by the death of the wife, July 22, 191 1.
They were the parents of four children: Benjamin, who is connected with the
magazine business in New York city ; Harriet, at home ; Henry, who was born
November 15, 1890, and died April 22, 191 1, at the age of twenty-one years and
five months ; and Irving, who was born in 1892 and died at the age of three
months.
After his marriage Mr. Wilk sold his dairy and returned to Minneapolis,
where he again conducted a store until 1889, and then removed to Beaver Dam,
ISADORE WILK.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
233
Here as a member of the firm of Wilk Brothers he opened a store at 106 Front
street, being the first exclusive dealers in men's clothing in this city. Mr. Wilk
holds membership with the Masonic lodge at Beaver Dam. He has made for
himself an excellent record as a business man during his residence in this city.
HARRY L. MORGAN.
Harry L. Morgan is the senior partner of the firm of Morgan & Young and
as such is one of the oldest merchants in Clyman in years of continuous con-
nection with business activity here. Throughout this entire period he has been
alert, enterprising and energetic — qualities which have constituted the founda-
tion upon which he has builded his success. He was born at Rosendale, Wis-
consin, September 20, 1876, a son of Lysond and Josephine (Anderson) Morgan,
both of whom were natives of England, the former born May 16, 1846, and the
latter on the 10th of November, 1854. The father was a lad of six years when
brought by his parents to the new world, the family home being established at
Rosendale, Fond du Lac county, where he grew to manhood and became a land-
owner, there engaging in farming up to the time of his death, which occurred
on the 19th of January, 1909. It was at Friendship, Fond du Lac county, that
he wedded Josephine Anderson, who survives him and lives on the old home-
stead. He had been previously married and to the first union one child was
born: Frank W., who is a traveling salesman and general manager for the
Reeves Thresher Company, living at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. By the second mar-
riage were born four children: Harry L. ; Irwin J., who resides on the old home-
stead; John, who also remains on the farm; and Hazel, the wife of Henry Hol-
lander, a farmer living in Lamartine township, Fond du Lac county.
Harry L. Morgan attended school in Rosendale and when not occupied with
his text-books worked in the fields, remaining at home until the time he attained
his majority. He believed that he would find commercial pursuits, however,
more congenial and profitable than farming and at the age of twenty-one left
home and secured a clerkship in the hardware store of J. A. Bunnell at Cly-
man. After three years spent as a salesman he purchased the business in part-
nership with Ed. Motl, with whom he conducted the store for three years, when
Mr. Motl sold his interest to Henry Freber, the firm of Morgan & Freber exist-
ing for one year. On the expiration of that period Mr. Morgan purchased his
partner's interest and was alone in business for five years, at the end of which
time he admitted his brother-in-law, L. J. Young, to a partnership that still
exists under the firm style of Morgan & Young. They carry a complete line
of farm machinery, buggies, binders, twine, harness, paints, oils, sporting goods,
gasoline engines and pumps, together with an extensive stock of shelf and
heavy hardware, and they also do pump repairing, conduct a garage and carry
on a general livery business. Mr. Morgan is likewise a director of the Farmers
State Bank of Clyman and is collector for three different insurance companies.
He concentrates his energies upon his business affairs, which are growing in
volume and importance, and he is recognized as one of the most active, ener-
getic and progressive business men of the city.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On the 22d of January, 1902, Mr. Morgan was married to Miss Myrtle J.
Bunnell, who was born in Clyman township, Dodge county, January 28, 1879,
and is a daughter of James A. and Jennie (Ennison) Bunnell. Mr. and Mrs.
Morgan have become parents of three children : Grace Florence, born December
23, 1903; Mildred Gladys, January 13, 1908; and Milton B., March 14, 1910.
Mr. Morgan holds membership in the Modern Woodmen camp, in which he is
serving as banker, and he is secretary of the Beavers. In politics he is an inde-
pendent republican but has never aspired to office. He votes according to the
dictates of his judgment rather than that of party bosses, and at all times he
stands loyally in defense of what he believes to be for the best interests of
the community.
ROLAND E. SCHOEN, M. D.
Dr. Roland E. Schoen is one of the well known and influential citizens of
Beaver Dam where he is engaged in the general practice of medicine. In his
high professional attainment and in the humanitarian principles by which he
carries on his work he is following his father in an honorable career. He was
born on May 4, 1878, in Mayville, Wisconsin, and is a son of Dr. August F. and
Margaret (Owen) Schoen. He is of German ancestry, his father having come
to the United States in 1864 from the province of Brandenburg when he was
still a youth, and settled in Mayville, where he received his education in the
Lutheran parochial school. When he laid aside his books he entered the em-
ploy of R. Sauerhering in the drug business and later followed this line of ac-
tivity in Chicago. He lost his entire fortune in the fire of 1871 and returned to
Mayville where he established a drug business and met with a gratifying degree
of success. In 1883 he was graduated from Rush Medical College at Chicago
with the degree of M. D. He immediately located for practice in Mayville,
where he has been successful as a physician since that time. He has always
been a republican and a stanch supporter of the party principles. He has
lived in America continuously since his arrival with the exception of some time
spent in touring Germany, France and Switzerland in 1905. He is one of the
able and enterprisig doctors of Mayville and has built up an extensive practice
during the period of his residence in that city.
Dr. Roland E. Schoen was educated in the public schools of his native city
and was graduated from the high school in 1897. He attended the University
of Chicago and in 1903 received his doctor's degree from Rush Medical Col-
lege. He supplemented this efficient education by eighteen months in the Engle-
wood hospital in Chicago. When his father left upon his journey through va-
rious European countries Dr. Roland Schoen relieved him of his practice, lo-
cating in Beaver Dam on October 25, 1905. He has been a resident of this
city since that time and his practice has been continually increasing with every
year of his activity. He is interested in every phase of the medical profes-
sion. While he was a resident of Chicago he was connected with the Second
Regiment hospital corps and has been city physician and health officer in Beaver
Dam since 1907. He is a member of the Wisconsin State Medical Society and
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
235
the Dodge County Medical Society and is also affiliated with the National Asso-
ciation.
On June 26, 1907, Dr. Schoen was united in marriage to Miss Franciska
Butterbrodt, a daughter of August Butterbrodt of Beaver Dam. Mrs. Schoen
is one of nine children born to her parents. The others are: Ernest, who is a
resident of Trenton township; Fred, of Burnett township; Charlie, who resides
in Beaver Dam; Augusta, who is the wife of Herman Albrecht, of the same
city ; and Marie, Frank, Herman Albert and Arthur, all of whom are residents
of Beaver Dam.
In his political affiliations Dr. Schoen is a democrat but does not take a
very active part in political affairs. His public spirit, however, has found a
worthy expression in another direction, which will prove of everlasting good to
the community, for it was through his efforts that the Beaver Dam hospital
was established and opened on October 18, 191 2, filling a long-felt want, as it is
the first institution of its kind in the city. He affiliates with the Lutheran church
and is widely known as a man of exemplary character. He has gained an ex-
tensive and valuable patronage in the city in which he resides which numbers
him among the prominent medical practitioners of the county. His high profes-
sional attainments and the sterling qualities of his character justify the respect
and esteem in which he is held by the medical fraternity and by the local public.
CHARLES F. NORTH, M. D.
Dr. Charles F. North bases his undoubted success in the general practice of
medicine upon his splendid professional training, his scientifically efficient
methods of work and his excellent general and specialized knowledge. He was
born April 24, 1854, in New Britain, Connecticut, and is a son of Fred H. and
Mary E. North. His family is descended from John North who came from
England in 1635 and settled in Hartford county, Connecticut. Fred H. North,
the father of our subject, came west to Chicago in 1890, and seven years later
came with his son to Beaver Dam. Here his death occurred. During his life
he had been a prominent and successful manufacturer but retired from business
in 1876. His wife was born October 9, 1833, and their marriage occurred in
New Britain, Connecticut, in August, 1850. They were the parents of three
children : Charles F., the subject of this sketch ; Grace Eugenia, who died at the
age of twenty-three ; and Mary F., whose birth occurred on February 19, 1862,
and who is now a resident of Beaver Dam.
Dr. North was educated in public and private schools of New Britain, Con-
necticut, and received his early training at home. In 1879, determining to take
up the practice of medicine, he went to Germany to study his profession in the
efficient schools of that country. He remained there five years, graduating from
the University of Leipsic in 1884. He took the degree of doctor of medicine and
surgery and of obstetrics from this institution and supplemented this course by
special studies in the University of Prague.
On April 3, 1884, in Leipsic, Dr. North was united in marriage to Miss
Elizabeth C. C. Kunz, a daughter of Camillo and Theresa (Guenther) Kunz,
236
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
natives of Saxony, Germany, where their marriage occurred. Mrs. North's
grandfather was a prominent engineer in his native country and built the first
railroad in Germany. He earned the title of major during the Crimean war,
and all during his life gave his attention to the details of his profession. Mrs.
North's father was crown attorney in Germany and one of the prominent and
representative members of the bar of that country. Her brother, Dr. Walter
C. Kunz, is a practicing physician in Rosario, Argentine Republic. To Dr. and
Mrs. North have been born three children. Grace Elizabeth, born in Chicago,
October 23, 1886, is a graduate of the Beaver Dam high school, Wayland Acad-
emy and Dennison University of Granville, Ohio, from which latter institution
she took a degree of Bachelor of Philosophy, and taught for some years in
the Cumberland high school at Cumberland, Wisconsin, but is now a resident
of Beaver Dam. Elsie G, born in Chicago, May 11, 1891, is a graduate of the
high school of Beaver Dam and of Wayland Academy and now a student at
Dennison University. Walter S., who was born in Beaver Dam, July 12, 1893,
is now attending the public schools.
In his political affiliations Dr. North is a consistent republican but never
seeks public office. He is affiliated with various organizations connected with
his profession. He is a member of the Wisconsin State Medical Society and the
Dodge County Medical Society, of which body he has been president. Fra-
ternally he is a blue lodge Mason and is master of Dodge County Lodge, No.
72, F. & A. M. He is one of the highly esteemed and undoubtedly successful
physicians of Beaver Dam. He has built up a profitable patronage which ranks
him among the prominent and representative members of the medical profession
and he owes his success to his unaided merit. He is a successful physician be-
cause he is a thoroughly equipped one. He has the foundation of all true pro-
fessional prosperity — scientific efficiency.
Dr. A. A. Hoyer, a well known medical practitioner of Westford, Dodge
county, was born in Platteville, Wisconsin, in 1879. His father, Rev. E. Hoyer,
a minister of the Lutheran church, was born in 1853 in Hamburg, Germany,
and came to America when he was about fifteen years of age, settling in Water-
town. Here he completed an education begun in Germany in the public schools
of the city and supplemented this by a course in the Northwestern University.
• His theological studies were pursued at the St. Louis Theological Seminary and
he was ordained to the ministry in 1881. His first charge was at Manchester,
Wisconsin, and from there he removed to Platteville. Eventually he accepted
a charge at West Bend and has made that city his home since that time. He
married Miss Mary Keissel, who was born in Maryland in 1859, a daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. M. Keissel, of that state. She was educated in the public schools
of her native section and at the Northwestern University at Watertown. Rev.
and Mrs. Hoyer became the parents of nine children. A. A. Hoyer, the subject
of this review, is the eldest. Elsie, born in 1881, is residing at home. Walter,
born in 1883, is married and lives in North Yakima, Washington. Agnes, born
A. A. HOYER. M. D.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
239
in 1884, lives at home. Ruth, born in 1886, is a trained nurse by profession and
resides at Evanston, Illinois. Irene, born in 1887, is a civil service teacher at
Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and holds her position under the United States
government. George, born in 1890, is pursuing the medical course in the North-
western University at Chicago, Illinois, being now in his sophomore year. Regi-
nald, born in 1892, is studying pharmacy at West Bend, where he is employed
as clerk in a drug store. Edward, who completes the family, was born in
1895 and is a student in the high school at West Bend.
A. A. Hoyer was still a child when his father removed from Platteville to
West Bend and his early education was received in the public schools of that
city. He is a graduate of the West Bend high school and afterward attended
Marquette University at Milwaukee, from which institution he received his
degree of M. D. in 1906. He located immediately in Randolph and from the
very beginning his success has been unusual, he having in six years built up an
enviable and profitable practice as a physician and surgeon. His skill in diagnosing
diseases and in the application of remedies is widely recognized and he com-
mands the respect and esteem of his patients, fellow citizens and members of
the medical fraternity.
In 1910 Dr. Hoyer was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte Jones, a daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Jones, of Gomer, Ohio, and a graduate of Northern
University at Ada, in the same state. To Dr. and Mrs. Hoyer has been born a
son, Edward Charles, whose birth occurred in October, 191 1. They belong to
the Lutheran church. Dr. Hoyer is a member of the County, State and American
Medical Societies and in his social and professional life is recognized as a man
of genuine personal worth, who has won the respect and esteem of all with
whom he comes in contact.
HENRY S. GILMORE.
The activities which have marked the career of Henry S. Gilmore include
his connection with many different phases of life in Dodge county. He is
well known in fraternal circles and has figured prominently in county and state
politics. He has also been an important force in the agricultural development
of his section although he has now definitely retired from this field of activity.
He is residing in Beaver Dam and is well known in this city as a man who will
always cooperate in promoting the progress and welfare of his community. He
was born in Yorkville, Racine county, Wisconsin, November 14, 1848, and is
a son of David S. and Lorena S. (Goff) Gilmore. His father was born Septem-
ber 22, 1817, and came to Wisconsin from Ohio in 1839. He was a successful
agriculturist and when he moved to Racine county in 1855, he engaged in this
line of occupation with increasing success until his death on July 1, 1873. He
became prominently connected with republican politics in the section in which
he settled and served as county treasurer of Racine county and later as jus-
tice of the peace in Dodge county with much energy and success. While he was
a resident of Ohio he belonged to the state militia. His wife, who in her
maidenhood was Miss Lorena S. Goff, was born on the 16th of September, 1820.
•ml n-n
240
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Their marriage occurred in Yorkville, Racine county, on May 31, 1846. Mrs.
Gilmore survived her husband until 1880, her death occurring on the 10th of
February in that year. They were the parents of two children: Henry S.,
the subject of this sketch ; and Sophia, now Mrs. James H. Waddell, of Golden-
dale, Washington.
Henry S. Gilmore was reared at home and received his education in the
public schools of Dodge county. He attended Wayland Academy and took a
business course in the Spencerian College of Milwaukee. At the age of twenty-
four years he engaged in agricultural pursuits, continuing therein until 1882.
In that year he returned to Beaver Dam and has been prominent in many lines
of activity in this city since that time. At one period in his career he operated
a large wheat farm in North Dakota and another agricultural enterprise in
Dodge county. He has now definitely retired from active farm work, abandon-
ing this phase of his career in 1910. At the present time he is chiefly interested
in local politics, voting the democratic ticket. For four years, from 1894 to
1898 he was a member of the Wisconsin state legislature and was noted for his
constructive and energetic work in the interests of good government. He has
the record of six years' service as mayor of Beaver Dam. He served from
1897 *to 1898 in this capacity and then with the interruption of four years
held the office continuously from 1902 to 1905. His public career has been dis-
tinguished by strict conscientiousness and his policy of expansion which always
has for its dominating factor the welfare and interests of Beaver Dam and
Dodge county. For several years Mr. Gilmore was a member of the county
board and is now acting as president of the board of trustees of the Dodge
County Insane Asylum. He is president of the fire and police commission of
Beaver Dam and is doing efficient and useful work in this capacity.
On October 6, 1875, Mr Gilmore was united in marriage to Miss Ella E.
Curtis, a daughter of George W. and Isabel Curtis of Calamus, Dodge county,
Wisconsin. Mrs. Gilmore's grandparents on the maternal side were Sam and
Fannie Sunderland. The wife of our subject is one of seven children, all of
whom were born in England and six of whom came to America in 1850 and located
in Beaver Dam, these being Walter, George, Joseph, William and Fannie. Maria
is still in England. Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore have six children. The eldest is
Phoebe A., who was a teacher of drawing for five years in the Beaver Dam
high school before she married Frank Hyde of Appleton, Wisconsin, by whom
she has four children: Genevieve; Donald and Douglas, twins; and Marion.
Dora E. is a graduate of Dickson College, Illinois, where she took a special
course in stenography and drawing. She taught school for five years in La
Salle, Illinois, where she was connected with the high school. She later mar-
ried Walter R. Clough, of Milledgeville, Illinois, by whom she has one son,
Howard. George II., the eldest son born to Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore spent two
years at the university in Appleton, Wisconsin, and taught for three years
in Illinois. He later went to North Dakota and was for three years county su-
perintendent of schools. He also acted as clerk of his township and brought
to his political life high ideals of personal responsibility. He became identi-
fied with business interests in North Dakota and as president of the Farmers
Elevator Company of Griffin was well known as an able executive. He mar-
ried Miss Floy McLean of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and lias one child, Lois. Belle
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
241
G. was a teacher in the public schools of Beaver Dam for four years previ-
ous to her marriage to Earl Phelps, of Duluth, Minnesota. The other two chil-
dren born to Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore are : Charles C, living in Beaver Dam, and
EUiott, who is attending the high school at Beaver Dam and makes his home with
his parents.
Fraternally Mr. Gilmore is prominent in the affairs of the Independent Or-
der of Odd Fellows and at different times has served as noble grand of the
Beaver Dam branch of that organization. He is a successful and thoroughly
practical man, one who can make his influence felt in high circles in his com-
munity and who leaves upon all the work which he does the impress of an
honorable and courageous personality.
FERDINAND F. L. LINDEMAN.
Ferdinand F. L. Lindeman is carrying on general farming upon one hun-
dred and sixty acres of land in Dodge county near Juneau and is numbered
among the enterprising and progressive agriculturists of his section. He was
born in Ashford township, Fond du Lac county, May 20, 1864, a son of Chris-
tian and Wilhelmina (Stoltzman) Lindeman, natives of Brandenburg, Germany.
Their marriage occurred in the fatherland and they crossed the Atlantic to
America in 1856, locating in New York state. About four years later they came
to Wisconsin, settling in Juneau, where they remained only a short time. The
father was a brickmaker by trade and made the first brick in Juneau. Later he
went to Fond du Lac county and began general farming, residing in that section
until 1868, when he came to Dodge county and settled on the farm now owned
by the subject of this review. This property he operated and improved until
about the year 1894, when he retired from active life and moved to Fond du
I,ac, returning to Juneau after one year. Here he died in 1906, having sur-
vived his wife for several years. He was prominent and active in local affairs
and held various public offices, including that of township treasurer. In 1864
he was appointed by the government as drafter for Ashford township and served
ably and well in this position.
Ferdinand Lindeman was educated in the public schools of Oak Grove town-
ship and in the private German school at Juneau. He remained at home until
he was twenty-seven years of age and then rented his father's farm. After
three years he bought this property which comprises one hundred and sixty
acres of productive land and has since carried on the work of development
along progressive, modern lines. He made a number of improvements on his
farm since it came into his possession, and he has cleared and delevoped an
additional forty acres and has all of the land in an excellent condition. He
does general farming and stock-raising and is numbered among the substantial
and successful men of his section. The management and operation of his
farm, however, is by no means his only interest. He is an important figure in
business circles of his section and is a stockholder in the Auto Truck factory
at Juneau, and also in the Milwaukee, Western Interurban line, which is to
242
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
operate between Milwaukee and Juneau. He has also invested judiciously in
Wisconsin real estate and owns valuable tracts of land in different counties.
On March 31, 1891, Mr. Lindeman was united in marriage to Miss Helena
Zepp, who was born in Lowell township, February 14, 1868, a daughter of
Jacob and Margaret (Frey) Zepp, natives of Germany. Her father came to
America in his early years and settled with his parents in Washington county
where for some time he worked in the employ of others. Later he became an
extensive owner of farm lands in this county. He was prominent in local poli-
tics, serving as chairman of Lowell township for several terms. When a resi-
dent of Beaver Dam he was a member of the city council and did able and
efficient work in various other important offices. He died in 1901 and his wife
survived him until 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Lindeman have ten children: Amanda,
who was born February 25, 1892, and who resides at home ; Ferdinand, Jr.,
born July 16, 1894; John, born May 3, 1896; Edward, whose birth occurred
April 6, 1898; Helena, who died in infancy; Welda, born January 22, 1900;
Elmer, born March 27, 1903 ; Celia, born June 20, 1905 ; Edna, born March 23,
1908; and Hilda, whose birth occurred October 2, 191 1. The family are mem-
bers of the German Reformed church.
Mr. Lindeman gives his allegiance to the democratic party and at the present
time is serving his sixth term as chairman of Oak Grove township. In 1898
he was township treasurer and served one term and was for fourteen years a
member of the school board. He was also clerk of this organization for four-
teen years, although he did not serve consecutively, and did able and conscien-
tious work in this capacity. He is well known in business circles of Juneau and
as treasurer of the Wisconsin Hail & Cyclone Insurance Company and director
of the bank at Juneau has made his influence felt in both organizations. In
all affairs, in which he is interested and active he has won success, by reason of
his progressive methods and his honorable business standards, which rank him
among the able agriculturists of the section and among Dodge county's most
valued and enterprising citizens.
PAUL B. HERKER.
Paul B. Herkcr devotes practically his entire time and attention to the con-
duct of a large fire insurance agency in Horicon, his native city, handling the
business of several leading American companies and has achieved prosperity in
this line by reason of his business ability directed for many years along this
line. He was born February 28, 1876, in the village in which he now resides, a
son of Charles and Emma (Franke) Herker, natives of Germany. The father
was born November 27, 1842, and the mother in 1852. Charles Herker crossed
the Atlantic to America when he was about seventeen years of age and settled in
Wisconsin near Mayville, where he became well known in agricultural circles.
He left his farm in that section in 1873 and came to Horicon. where for several
years he operated a saloon. Afterward he conducted a windmill factory but
disposed of this enterprise in order to identify himself with the fire insurance
business in which he was active until the time of his death which occurred
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
243
November 25, 191 1. He was well known in local politics and served for eight
years as city treasurer, discharging his duties ably and conscientiously and gain-
ing recognition as an honest and upright public official. He and his wife were
the parents of five children: Roland, deceased; one who died in infancy; Paul
B., of this review ; Otelia, the wife of Otto C. Lehman, who is engaged in the
restaurant business in Horicon ; and Gustav, who is engaged in the saloon busi-
ness in Horicon.
Paul Herker received his education in the public schools of Horicon. After
he had completed his studies at the age of sixteen years he worked in a hard-
ware store for six years and then learned the turner's trade. He afterward
conducted a saloon in Horicon for twelve years, abandoning this enterprise in
order to give his attention to the management of a hardware store which he
purchased. In this line of activity he continued for one year and then disposed
of his interests and took up fire insurance, having one of the important agencies
in Dodge county. He has made a comfortable fortune which he has invested
judiciously in local enterprises, owning a fine business building and a valuable
lot next to the postoffice in Horicon. In 191 1 he completed a modern and up-
to-date residence on Walnut street in which he resides and in which he has his
office.
Mr. Herker married December 3, 1907, Miss Louisa Lehman, who was born
in Ashippun township, December 26, 1875, a daughter of Ludwig and Henrietta
(Thieman) Lehman, natives of Germany, who were early settlers in Dodge
county. The father followed farming in Ashippun township and was an ex-
tensive land owner at the time of his death which occurred about the year 1904.
His wife survives and makes her home in Neosho. In their family were five
children, of whom Mrs. Herker is the eldest. Mr. and Mrs. Herker have two
sons: Leonard, who was born November 11, 1909; and Arnold, whose birth
occurred on the 1st of June, 191 1.
Mr. Herker gives a general allegiance to the republican party but in local
affairs votes for the man whom he considers best fitted for the position. He
was elected city treasurer in 1912 and is discharging his duties ably and con-
scientiously. He has many friends in Horicon and is a prominent figure in its
business and social life, having gained a success while still a young man which
is generally associated with a long period of activity.
LEWIS OWENS.
Lewis Owens, who has been a resident of Dodge county since his birth, has
devoted his attention to general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire career
and is owner of an excellent farm of ninety-five acres in Hubbard township.
His birth occurred upon his father's homestead in this section, April 12, 1859,
his parents being Hugh and Carolina (Albert) Owens. His father was born in
Wales in 181 2 and came to America in his early days and worked at farming
until his death in 1884. The mother of our subject is a native of Saxony, Ger-
many, where she was born in 1838. She still survives her husband.
244
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
In the acquirement of an education Lewis Owens attended the common
schools at Iron Ridge and remained with his parents until he was twenty years
of age, aiding in the work of the farm. When he began his independent career
he purchased from his father the ninety-five acres which constitute his present
farm. As the years have gone by he has steadily carried forward the work of
development, making many substantial improvements. In connection with tilling
the soil he makes a specialty of raising sheep and gives a great deal of his time
to the conduct of his dairy, keeping a fine herd of graded Holstein cows for
this purpose. His various interests return him a gratifying income, for Mr.
Owens is a shrewd business man as well as a practical and progressive agricul-
turist. On December 18, 1884, Mr. Owens married Miss Louisa Matthes, who
was born in Dodge county, January 21, 1863, a daughter of Fred and Johanna
(Degner) Matthes, natives of Germany. Her father was born in the district
of the Oderbruk, June 21, 1830, and resides in Horicon. His wife's birth oc-
curred December 3, 1839, and she died in Woodland, Dodge county, in 1881.
Mr. and Mrs. Owens have three children: Mata, who married Robert Arm-
strong, of Milwaukee ; Nora, who lives at home ; and Hugo, who resides in the
northern part of the state. The family are members of the Methodist church.
Mr. Owens belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and in politics is a
republican, supporting men and measures of that party. His business interests
have been carefully conducted, his duties of citizenship capably performed and
at all times he has been true to the obligations and responsibilities which have
developed upon him in every relation of life, so that he is regarded as one of the
worthy and representative residents of his community.
One of the most enterprising, representative and successful young business
men of Minnesota Junction is Robert H. Polzin, who owns a half-interest in
the Minnesota Junction Creamery, one of the most important enterprises of its
kind in this section, and who is influencing its growth and development by his
progressive methods, his energy and his business ability. He was earning his
own livelihood when he was fourteen years of age and this early training in
independence and initiative has made him successful in business at an age when
most young men have scarcely begun their active career. He is a native son
Wisconsin and was born near Watertown. October 12, 1888. His parents, God-
fried and Augusta (Radig) Polzin, were natives of Germany. They came to
America in their early lives and settled immediately near Watertown, where the
father purchased land upon which he is still residing. He has extensive property
interests in this vicinity and is one of the representative citizens of the district.
He was twice married. By his first union he had four children, while he and his
second wife became the parents of seven, of whom our subject is the fourth in
order of birth.
After completing his preliminary education in the public schools near Water-
town, Robert Polzin entered the Northwestern University in the same city and
upon completing his course studied in the Milwaukee Business College for some
ROBERT H. POLZIN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
time. He began his active career, however, when he was fourteen years of age,
working as a farm hand in the summer months and gaining enough money in
this way to pay for his education during the winter. When he was nineteen
years of age he obtained employment in a creamery in Berlin, where he remained
for eighteen months, when he went to Lake Mills and was there employed in a
similar enterprise. He then invested the money he had saved in a half-interest
in the Minnesota Junction Creamery and has been identified with the manage-
ment of this concern in partnership with H. J. Grell since that time The firm
makes a specialty of Rose Leaf butter and cottage cheese, supplying the local
markets with these commodities and also shipping to different parts of the
country. The business has expanded rapidly as the pure and wholesome qual-
ities of the products manufactured have become known and it is now a large and
rapidly growing institution, operated along systematic and progressive lines.
Mr. Polzin gives much of his time and attention to its management, Mr. Grell
being identified with other important business enterprises, prominent among
which may be mentioned the Butter & Egg Company of Johnston's Creek. He
is also in partnership with Mr. Polzin interested in a moving picture theater in
Juneau, which nets them gratifying financial returns,
On November 4, 1908, Mr. Polzin was united in marriage to Miss Lydia
Bloch, who was born near Berlin, Wisconsin, October 16, 1888, a daughter of
William and Mary (Leppert) Bloch, natives of Germany, in which country the
mother passed away. The father came to this section about 1898 and settled on
a farm near Berlin, where he and his second wife reside. He had three children
by his first marriage and five by his second union. To Mr. and Mrs. Polzin
has been born a son, Melvin, whose natal day was November 3, 1911.
Mr. Polzin does not ally himself with any political party, voting for the
man whom he considers best fitted for the position. He is a member of the
Lutheran church. He is a fine type of the modern young business man, forceful,
enterprising and progressive, and in the four years of his connection with his
present enterprise, has made it one of the important concerns in the county. At
twenty-four he stands still at the beginning of his career which is a pleasant
indication of a prosperous future.
WILLIAM J. WEGENER.
William J. Wegener is engaged in the commission business, conducting an
enterprise of this kind in Minnesota Junction, and he also gives much of his
time to the development of a thirty-acre tract of land, which he operates as a
truck and berry farm. He is a skillful and practical agriculturist, having learned
the details of this occupation as a boy upon his father's farm, and is guided by
business ability of no mean order, making him successful in his chosen line of
work, He is 'a native son of Dodge county, born in Theresa township, August
7, 1866, a son of William and Augusta (Knoll) Wegener, both born near Ber-
lin, Germany. His father was a farmer in his native country and followed
that occupation after he came to America in May, 1866, carrying on agricultural
pursuits until his death, which occurred in September. 1867, one year after
246
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
his arrival in Wisconsin. After his demise his wife resided for three years in
Theresa and then moved to Horicon, where she remained for fifteen years. At
the end of that time she purchased a small farm near Minnesota Junction and
resided upon this property for fourteen years, until she moved into the village,
where she died January 26, 191 1.
After completing his education in the public and German schools of Hori-
con, William J. Wegener worked upon neighboring farms until he was eighteen
years of age. He then obtained a position in a wholesale grocery in Milwaukee
and after a year and a half in this capacity his health failed and he was obliged
to resign. In order to recuperate he worked upon a farm in the summer months
for the following four years, engaging in the commission business during the
winters. When he had fully recovered his health he established himself in the
commission business in partnership with John Krause, at Minnesota Junction,
and two years later purchased his partner's interests and has since conducted
the enterprise alone. For seven years he also acted in the interests of the Stand-
ard Oil Company and then took over the agency for the Valvoline Oil Com-
pany, a connection which he has continued to the present time. He gives much
of his time and attention to the operation of a thirty acre farm planted in garden
truck and berries and also in grain, with which he feeds his three teams of
horses. In his farming operations he has been active and energetic, his labor
resulting in gratifying success. He keeps two men upon his property the year
round and during the winter months when his poultry must be dressed and
shipped he sometimes employs over fifteen laborers. He supplies a fine grade
of dressed veal to Swift & Company and to the George F. Henrichs Company,
of New York City, and his markets are rapidly extending their limits as the
quality of his products becomes more widely known.
On October 1, 1895, Mr. Wegener was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie
M. Friend, born in Williamstown township, near Mayville, November 28, 1869,
a daughter of George and Maria (Rabach) Friend, natives of Germany. Her
father was born in 1844 and when he was four years of age came to America
with his parents, settling on a farm near Mayville upon which he grew to
maturity. Later he moved to the vicinity of Juneau where he owned a valuable
tract of land which he cultivated until his death, July 10, 1897. His wife still
resides upon the homestead. Mr. and Mrs. Wegener became the parents of
eight children: Emma, who was born May 12, 1896, and who is a student in the
Horicon high school ; Elizabeth, born November 5, 1897, also at school in Hori-
con ; George, who was born August 22, 1901 ; Charles and William, twins,
whose births occurred February 3, 1904; Walter, who passed away at the age
of three years ; Mary, who died at the age of eighteen months ; and Dorothy,
whose birth occurred December 21. 191 1. The family are members of the
Lutheran church.
Mr. Wegener gives his allegiance to the republican party and has served
his fellow citizen? in various offices, including those of supervisor and town-
ship clerk. He held the former position for two years, and the latter for six,
doing able and conscientious work in both capacities. Fraternally he belongs to
the Order of Beavers and the Modern Woodmen of America at Juneau and
is active in the affairs of the Horicon Lodge, Fraternal Order of Eagles. He
is one of the representative business men of Minnesota Junction and has been
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
connected with the operation of his present enterprise for a number of years.
He has been successful both as a farmer and a commission merchant and is
well and favorably known in the district where he is recognized as a man of
honorable and straightforward standards and unusual business intelligence.
CARL WALTER SCHLAEBITZ.
Carl Walter Schlaebitz has lived in Beaver Dam for thirty-one years, having
made this city his home upon his arrival in America from his native country,
Germany. He is prominent in the general contracting business with which he
became identified in 1896 and by insight, efficiency and sagacity has built up
an enterprise along this line which makes him an important factor in business
circles of the city. He was born July 16, 1854, in Calbe, Province of Saxony,
Germany, a son of Carl and Johanna (Graefe) Schlaebitz, who lived and died
in the fatherland.
Carl W. Schlaebitz is the fourth in a family of five children. He attended
the public schools of his native country and lived at home until 1873 m which
year his father passed away, his mother having died January 20, 1871. He
remained in Germany until 1881, coming in that year to America and settling
immediately in Beaver Dam. From 1881 to 1896 he worked at the carpenter's
trade and in the latter year established himself in the general contracting busi-
ness, the growth of which has made him one of the prosperous and prominent
men of the city, its success being due to his able management.
On December 18, 1883, Mr. Schlaebitz was united in marriage to Miss Hen-
rietta Gallun, whose birth occurred in 'Holstein, Germany, October 4, 1841.
Mrs. Schlaebitz was the youngest in a family of six children. She died in
Beaver Dam, February 10, 1912, and is buried in Oakwood cemetery.
Mr. Schlaebitz votes the democratic ticket and has for many years been
active in local affairs. For five years he served as alderman of the first ward
and was reelected in the spring of 1912, for a term of two years. He does not
hold membership in any religious organization but was reared in the German
Lutheran church. He has invested his money judiciously, owning property on
Hashel and Beaver streets and also a one hundred and sixty acre farm in North
Dakota. His residence is located at No. 205 South Center street and he has
won many friends in this city by reason of a life which in all of its aspects is
useful, upright and worthy.
EDWARD F. GUENTHER.
Edward F. Guenther is conducting a livery in Juneau and in five years has
built up a flourishing and prosperous business and gained for himself an im-
portant place in the commercial life of the village. He was born in Lowell,
Dodge county, February 28, 1876. a son of William F. and Amelia (Zinke)
Guenther, natives of Saxony, Germany. The father came to America in the early
24fl
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
'40s, settling in Milwaukee, where he worked as a blacksmith for some time.
Coming to Clyman township, he purchased land and operated his farm for a
number of years and upon it resided until he came to Lowell township, where he
followed agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1896. He was
well known in local political circles and for two years served as township treas-
urer, discharging his duties ably and efficiently. His wife survived him for
two years, dying in 1898.
Edward Guenther is the youngest in a family of six children. He attended
school in Lowell township and completed his studies in the Lowell village school.
When he was twenty-one years of age he purchased land in his native section
and began farming upon his property, improving and developing it for ten
years. At the expiration of that time he disposed of his holdings and came to
Juneau, where he engaged in the livery business, keeping fine horses and auto-
mobiles for this purpose. He is a stockholder in the auto truck factory at
Juneau and prominent in various other local enterprises.
On January 5, 1898, Mr. Guenther was united in marriage to Miss Tillie
Wirth, who was born in Hubbleton, Jefferson county, March 29, 1877, a daugh-
ter of Michael and Dorothy Albright (Luckow) Wirth, natives of Pomerania,
Germany, who came to America in the early '50s, settling immediately in Jeffer-
son county. Here the father followed the trade of carpenter for some time
and later engaged in farming, purchasing tracts of land in different parts of the
district and becoming an extensive property owner. He still resides on his farm
in Hubbleton township. His wife who had been married previous to her union
to Mr. Wirth, died in 1907. They were the parents of five children, of whom
Mrs. Guenther is the youngest. Mr. and Mrs. Guenther have two children:
Gladys Evelyn, born July 26, 1900; and Claude Gilbert, whose birth occurred
on the 6th of October, 1907.
Mr. Guenther is a consistent democrat but has never sought public office.
He belongs to the German Reformed church, and is active in the affairs of the
Modern Woodmen of America. He gives most of his attention, however, to
the conduct of his business and has met with well deserved success in this
line, which he enjoys as a natural result of his well directed labors.
HERMAN BILGRIEN'.
Among the men who are shaping business and agricultural development in
Dodge county is Herman Bilgrien, who since the beginning of his career has
been connected with various industries in Hubbard township, his native section.
Throughout the entire period his influence has been constantly upon the side
of progress and advancement and at the present time his prosperity is regarded
as a public resource. Mr. Bilgrien was born March 19, 1864. and is a son of
John and Wilhelmina (Loppnow) Bilgrien, natives of Germany, both of whom
have passed away.
Herman Bilgrien was educated in the public and German schools of Hub-
bard township and after laying aside his books worked for his father until
after the latter's death, and during this time added to his activities the duties
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
24 9
connected with the operation of four large cheese factories. This interest he
has carried forward into his later life and for a number of years has been con-
nected with various concerns of a similar kind throughout Dodge county.
For about eight years he has been in business in Iron Ridge, where he conducted
a meat market and saloon, but has of late discontinued the meat market. For
the last fifteen years he has been well known in insurance circles, doing a large
business along this line. Aside from this, however, his interest centers in the
operation of his farm and in stock-raising, to which he is giving special atten-
tion, making some valuable experiments in the feeding of hogs with a view to
obtain statistics as to which foods give the best results. He is interested in
breeding cattle and has fine herds of full-blooded Holsteins, some of which he
ships and sells in the markets.
Mr. Bilgricn married November 6, 1890, Miss Elizabeth Indermuehle, whose
birth occurred in Switzerland, November 30, 1867. Her father, Christian Inder-
muehle, died in his native country but her mother, who was in her maidenhood
Miss Elizabeth Baerschy, came to America and died in Woodland, Dodge county.
Mr. and Mrs. Bilgrien became the parents of thirteen children, of whom Herbert,
Mollie, Alma and Walter arc deceased. Those living in 1912 arc: Lillie, who is
twenty years of age; Harry, nineteen; Armin, seventeen; Hilda, sixteen; John,
fourteen ; Lizzie, thirteen ; Cora, eight ; Marcella, six ; and Herman, four. The
family are members of the Lutheran church.
Mr. Bilgrien is in sympathy with the principles of the democratic party and
has been honored by election to public office by the people of his county and
has discharged his official duties with fidelity and promptness. For one term
he was township treasurer, for two years afterward served as treasurer of Dodge
county, and at the present time is acting as chairman of the board of Hubbard
township. He is a member of the Farmer's Union, of which he acts as shipper
at Iron Ridge. He has never hesitated to assert his rights when he felt that a
(|uestion of justice was involved and has appeared before the circuit and supreme
courts in important cases involving large milk dealers. He keeps well informed
upon the general events of the day and has always been alive to the progress
of the county in which he was born and in which his deepest interest is centered.
He is easily among the leaders in anything he desires to undertake, for men of
his class influence the progress and advancement of any community.
WILLIAM FREDRICK.
William Fredrick, conducting a retail hardware store in Iron Ridge, was
born in Hubbard township, July 5, 1886, a son of Gustav and Gusta (Klemp)
Fredrick, natives of Germany. His father came to America with his parents
when he was only two years of age and grew to manhood upon a farm in
Hubbard township Later he became an extensive property owner and a pros-
perous farmer, following agricultural pursuits in this section until 1003, when
he moved to Iron Ridge where he is now living retired. He and his wife have
two children: Minnie, who married Otto Boeder, a farmer of Hubbard town-
ship; and William, the subject of this review
250
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
After completing his education in the public and German schools at Iron
Mountain, William Fredrick aided his father in the work of the farm until he
was twenty years of age and then went to Iron Ridge, where he established him-
self in the retail hardware business and has retained his connection with this
line since that time. He carries a modern stock, complete in all its lines and his
business ability and progressive methods have brought him a large patronage,
which has increased steadily year by year, as the quality of his goods and his
upright business methods have become more widely known. He has recently
added a plumbing department and gives much of his time to this branch of
his business, doing general plumbing and specializing in the installation of
heating plants. He keeps in touch with modern business conditions as they
affect his line of work by retaining an active connection with the Wisconsin Re-
toil Hardware Association, in which body he is prominent and well known. He
gives his allegiance to no particular party, preferring to keep independent. He
is a member of the Lutheran church. Still too young to have accomplished a
decided success, he has founded a business which he conducts along lines of
expansion, making it one of the flourishing commercial enterprises in the vil-
lage and has acquired a position in business circles which is a fair indication of
future attainment.
Dr. Enoch P. Webb has been practicing medicine in Beaver Dam since
1897 with gratifying and well deserved success. He was born on February 4,
1871, in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin. His parents were William and Hcph-
zibah (Palmer) Webb, the former a native of Genesee county, New York, and
the latter of New Brunswick. The father was born February 24, 1819, and set-
tled in Adams county, Wisconsin, where he remained for several years before
he went to Fond du Lac county. He had been a school teacher in Canada for
eight years prior to his removal west but abandoned that line of occupation in
order to engage in the mercantile business which was a profitable source of in-
come to him for twenty-five years. In 1889 he bought land in Beaver Dam in
the outskirts of the town. He was a republican in his political views and served
for several years as town clerk. He died on March 10, 1904. I lis wife is
still living and makes her home with her son, Enoch P. Webb.
Dr. Webb was educated in the public schools and was graduated from Way-
land Academy in 1892. He received his medical instruction in Rush Medical
College in Chicago, obtaining his degree in 1897. He located immediately for
practice in Beaver Dam, establishing his offide here on June I, 1897. He has
met with increasing and gratifying success and has built up a large and growing
practice. He is thoroughly and efficiently equipped in all the modern develop-
ments of the medical science and is an able physician.
On the 1 8th of May, 1904, Dr. Webb was united in marriage to Miss Nellie
Palmer, whose birth occurred on the nth of March, 1880. She is a daughter
of Edwin C. Palmer.
ENOCH P. WEBB, M. D.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
251
Dr. Webb is independent in politics. He served from 1898 to 1899 as city
physician and did able and constructive work in this capacity. He is interested
in the cause of education and was school commissioner for two years. He
affiliates with the Baptist church. His practice is carried on carefully and scien-
tifically and is increasing every year. He keeps in touch with developments
and discoveries in the world of medical science and interchanges thoughts and
ideas along these subjects with his colleagues as member of the Dodge County
and Wisconsin Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. Dr.
Webb is a physician of the present-day school, conscientious and thoroughly
conversant with the many intricate details connected with his profession.
WILLIAM KRUEGER.
William Kruegcr is living retired in his pleasant home in Iron Ridge after
an active and useful life spent in farming. For thirty-six years he developed and
cultivated a fine tract of one hundred and sixty acres, operating and improving
this property along progressive lines, making it one of the valuable farms in the
district. The land is now owned by his son, who is carrying on the work of
development, William Krueger retaining only forty acres of the homestead.
He is a native of Dodge county, born in Lebanon township, May 7, 1859, a son
of Fred and Paulina (Gentz) Krueger, natives of Germany, where the father
was born on the 28th of April, 1827, and the mother, January 9, 1829. Fred
Krueger came to America about 1850, settling immediately in Watertown, where
he followed his trade of wagon-maker for more than two years. Afterward
he purchased land in Lebanon township and began its improvement and devel-
opment. By hard work, and well directed ambition, he made this property one
of the most highly developed in the district and still resides upon it. He and his
wife are both active and hearty and have many friends in Lebanon township
where they have resided for over fifty years. In his younger days Fred Krueger
took an active part in local politics and held various public offices, serving with
ability and efficiency in the interests of his fellow citizens.
William Krueger is the second in a family of seven children. After com-
pleting his education in the district and German schools of Lebanon township
he aided his father in the work of the farm until he was twenty-three years of
age. Thus he became at an early period acquainted by personal experience with
the best methods of tilling the soil and the most modern ideas and standards of
operation. When he was twenty-three years old he purchased a farm two miles
east of Iron Ridge and began the cultivation of one hundred and sixty acres of
fertile land. He soon brought his property to an excellent condition and re-
mained upon it until 1009, when he sold one hundred and twenty acres to his
son, retaining for himself forty acres of the homestead. He moved to Iron
Ridge and purchased a comfortable home in which he is now living retired. He
has many friends in Iron Ridge who respect and esteem him for the honorable
and upright business policies which he has always advocated and for his
worth and character.
252
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On February u, 1883, Mr. Kruegcr was united in marriage to Mrs. Louisa
Boeder, who was born in Mayville, March 3, i860, a daughter of Michael Al-
brecht, and the widow of Frank Boeder, of Herman township. Her father was
a native of Germany and came to Wisconsin in his early life, settling in May-
ville. For some time he worked as a blacksmith but later purchased land, upon
which he carried on farming until his death. His wife has also passed away.
To Mr. and Mrs. Krueger have been born four children: Edwin, deceased;
Arthur, who resides on the homestead, and who married Miss Martha Westfall,
of Herman township ; William, who is a photographer in Hustisf ord ; and Edna,
who is attending school. Mrs. Krueger, by her former marriage had one son,
Robert, who is farming in Herman township.
In his political views Mr. Krueger is independent of party lines, voting for
the man whom he considers best fitted for the position. He is actively inter-
ested in the affairs of his section, but has never sought public office. He is one
of the native sons of Dodge county, whose career is a credit to the community.
In the many years of his residence here he has witnessed the changes and the
evolution which almost forty years have made in his district and he himself by
well directed labors has been a force for good in promoting development. He
has been a capable, enterprising and progressive agriculturist and is now living
retired in Iron Ridge. With him retirement has meant only a slackening of
the most arduous duties of life without lessening the breadth of his interests, or
the alertness and activity of his mind.
JOSEPH N. HINKES.
Joseph N. Hinkes is proprietor of the Milwaukee Hotel in Beaver Dam and
is well known in local business and political circles. He is a native son of Dodge
county, having been born in Leroy, on the 17th of March, 1871, a son of Peter
and Elizabeth (Heins) Hinkes, natives of Germany, who came to America in
1846, settling in Chicago. Here they remained until 1852, in which year they
came to Leroy, where they now reside.
Joseph N. Hinkes was the sixth in a family of ten children. He received his
education in the public and parochial schools of his native city and remained
with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age. When he had attained
his majority he went to Lomira township where he purchased sixty-five acres of
land which he operated and developed for seven years, selling it in 1899 and buy-
ing one hundred and twenty acres in Marathon county. Upon this property he
lived for six months disposing of the farm at the end of that time in order to go
to Knowles, where he established himself in the saloon business. After two years
he went to Minnesota Junction where he conducted a similar enterprise for five
years after which he went to Juneau. Here for one and one-half years he ran a
saloon but abandoned this and since that time has been proprietor and manager
of the Milwaukee Hotel in Beaver Dam. He has built up a prosperous business
by constant attention to its management and consideration of the comforts ind
conveniences of his guests. He has gained success by earnest and well directed
labor and is ranked among the enterprising business men of Beaver Dam.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
253
On September 8, 1892, Mr. Hinkes was united in marriage to Miss Clara
Heimerl, a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Waas) Heimerl. She was the second
in a family of twelve children and was born in Lomira, April 15, 1870. Mr. and
Mrs. Hinkes have six children : Paula, the wife of Fay Ellis, who is engaged in
farming in Wcstford, and by whom she has one child; Rose, Alvin, Joseph, and
George, all of whom reside at home; and Gilbert. All the children received their
education in the public schools of Dodge county. The family belongs to St.
Peter's Roman Catholic church.
In his political views Mr. Hinkes is consistently democratic and has always
been active in local affairs. He was treasurer of the town of Leroy in 1904 and
in 1910 was a candidate for the office of sheriff of Dodge county but was defeated
by a small majority. He is now running for the same office and received the
nomination in the primaries of September 3, 1912, which makes him practically
sure of election. He has always maintained in his political life the same high
standards of honor and integrity which have made his business
JOHN BODDEN.
John Bodden, treasurer of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company, is prom-
inent in political and business circles of Horicon, where he has resided for over
twenty-five years. He was born in Theresa, October 16, 1862, a son of Jacob
and Gertrude (Schiefer) Bodden, natives of Germany, born near Cologne.
They came to Dodge county in 1849 and in this section their marriage occurred.
Later the father took up government land, clearing a large tract in the northwest
corner of Washington county, but finding that a part of this property belonged
to another claim he abandoned his farm and went to Theresa where he cleared
another tract of land and resided upon it until his death in February, 1889. He
was prominent in local business affairs and held various important political
offices, including those of state representative, county treasurer, sheriff, and
chairman of the board of supervisors. His wife is living in Oshkosh, where she
makes her home with a daughter.
John Bodden attended the public schools of Theresa and later took a course
in the Spencerian Business College at Milwaukee. At the age of sixteen he
began earning his own livelihood, working as a clerk in a mercantile store in
Juneau where he remained for seven years, doing such able and systematic work
that he was finally offered a partnership. In this capacity he engaged in the
general merchandising business for two years and then came to Horicon where
he became identified with the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company as assistant
bookkeeper. His promotion was rapid and after a few years he was given
charge of the bookkeeping department and was then advanced to the position of
sales manager, directing in connection with this the collection department. In
1908 he was made treasurer of the company, in which capacity he is still serving.
He is well known in the affairs of other important commercial enterprises in
Horicon, including the Bodden Brothers Lumber Company, of which he is
president.
254
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On October 23, 1890, Mr. Boddcn was united in marriage to Miss Jessie L.
Stacks, who was born in Randolph, Columbia county, June 28, 1866, a daughter
of John J. and Lydia L. (Simpson) Stacks, the former a native of Brandon,
Vermont, born May 18, 1839, and the latter of Columbia county, New York,
born September 28, 1845. Tn e father became a grain dealer in his early life and
followed that occupation until 1850 when he came west and located in Herman
township. After some time he went to Iron Ridge, where for several years he
worked at various occupations, going to Randolph eventually. In that city he
obtained a position in an elevator owned by Mr. Foster and was later taken into
partnership with his employer. After seven years he returned to Iron Ridge
and there engaged in the grain business until he came to Horicon, where his
death occurred December 20, 1896. His widow makes her home with the sub-
ject of this review. Mr. and Mrs. Stacks had two children : Jessie L., the wife
of our subject ; and Warren, who is in the grain business in Milwaukee. Mr.
and Mrs. Bodden have one daughter, Mildred M., who was born January 1,
1894, and who lives at home.
Mr. Bodden gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is prominent in
local affairs. He has recently resigned after fifteen years' service as chief of
the Horicon volunteer fire department and has served in various public ca-
pacities, including those of alderman and supervisor. For two terms he was
mayor of the village and did much constructive and beneficial work during his
administration. He is a prominent figure in the affairs of a growing industrial
institution. He has an important place in business circles of Horicon and he
fills it ably and with evident success.
GEORGE BAUER.
George Bauer is a native of Dodge county and a son of one of its earliest
pioneers. He is at the present time one of the most progressive, enterprising
and successful farmers in Trenton township where he has operated an excellent
farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 29, for over twenty years.
He was born November 19, 1855, in Beaver Dam and is a son of Mathias and
Catherine (Robock) Bauer, natives of Bavaria, Germany, who came to America
in 1853 a" 0 * settled in Beaver Dam where they resided for two years. Later the
father bought forty acres of land near Leipsic, and cultivated and improved his
property until i860, when he sold it and moved to Calamus township where he
bought one hundred and twenty acres of raw land which he improved and
developed into an excellent farm. Upon this the family resided until 1870
when they sold the property and bought eighty acres in Beaver Dam township,
upon which the father died in 1879. He was survived by his wife until 1901
and both are buried in St. Peter's cemetery at Beaver Dam.
George Bauer was the seventh in a family of fifteen children. His early
childhood was spent upon his father's farm and as a boy he became well
acquainted with the best methods of tilling and cultivating the soil. After his
father died he remained with his mother until 1890 when he purchased the
property upon which he now resides. He does general farming and stock-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
raising and has every acre of his land under cultivation. He breeds graded
Holstein cattle, Poland China hogs, and Percheron horses which he feeds with
the hay and grain raised upon his property. Two fine barns supply shelter for
all his stock, one thirty-two feet by thirty-six, was remodeled in 1898 and the
other is entirely new. It has cement floors, patent stanchions and is equipped
with all modern accessories. Mr. Bauer's dairy forms an important branch of
his enterprise and for this reason he keeps eighteen high-grade milch cows. He
manages the farm in an expert way, supplementing his agricultural skill by busi-
ness ability of a high order, his methods being based upon the strictest principles
of integrity and he well deserves the position he has gained among the repre-
sentative citizens of Dodge county.
In 1886 Mr. Bauer was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Rack, of West-
ford township, a daughter of John and Josephine Rack. She was the fourth in
a family of six children and was born on March 16, 1867. She passed away
on the 1 ith of March, 1897, and is buried in St. Peter's cemetery. To this union
were born seven children: Mary, who married Paul Warmke, of Freeseland,
Columbia county, by whom she has two children; Tillie, who teaches school;
Henry, who lives at home ; Francis, who is also with his parents ; Edward, who
died in childhood ; and Minnie and Augusta, both of whom live at home. In
1899 Mr. Bauer was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Rack, a sister of his
former wife and by her he has two children, Arthur A. and Leonard J. The
family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church of Fox Lake.
Mr. Bauer gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is serving as
chairman of the town board. For four years he held the office of township
treasurer and for the past fifteen years that of school clerk in which capacity
he is serving at the present time. He has been identified with agriculture in this
section for almost a quarter of a century and during that time his activities have
been along progressive lines, promoting his success and prosperity.
CLARK W. VOORUS, M. D.
Dr. Clark W. Voorus is one of the successful and prosperous physicians of
Beaver Dam and his history has been identified with the early days of the devel-
opment of this section of the country. He was born in Manlius, Onondaga
county, New York, on the 7th of April, 1851, and is a son of Hiram and Rocena
(Larrabee) Voorus. He is of German ancestry. Hiram Voorus settled in
1854, in Scott, Sheboygan county, Wisconsin, and removed to Dodge county in
1862. He was a farmer and successful in the cultivation of the soil until his
death at the age of forty-two years. He and his wife were the parents of four
children : Clark W., the subject of this sketch ; Josephine, now Mrs. Carmichael,
of Fond du Lac county; Lorctta, now Mrs. Reynolds, who resides in British
Columbia; and Clara, of Byron township.
Dr. Voorus was educated in the public schools of Scott, Sheboygan county.
He was a student in the Lcroy public schools for some time and received his
medical degree from Rush Medical College, Chicago, graduating in 1877. He
later took a post-graduate course in special studies, completing his education in
v«l n-15
258
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1885. He located in Dodge county in 1877 and for ten years was widely known
in that section as an efficient physician. In 1887 he came to Beaver Dam where
he is carrying on the general practice of medicine with much success. His
prosperity has increased yearly and is founded upon systematic and scientific
methods.
In 1877, Dr. Voorus was united in marriage to Miss Emma Cowles, and to
this marriage two children were born. The elder is Elda A., who is a graduate
of the Beaver Dam high school and later married Arthur Spencer, now deceased,
by whom she has one child, Gilbert, now in the eighth year of his age. The
other is Leo O., who was educated in the public schools of Beaver Dam and
attended high school in that city. He later attended St. John's Military Academy.
Subsequently he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons and was grad-
uated therefrom with the degree of M. D. in 191 1. He spent one year and a
half as an interne in St. Joseph's Hospital and is now located in Beaver Dam and
practicing with his father. He married August 4, 191 2, Miss Amanda Wille of
Milwaukee. Mrs. Clark W. Voorus is a charming and hospitable woman and
well able, by her social talents and accomplishments, to aid her husband in his
professional life. Her father, Martin Cowles, came from Rhode Island to
Leroy, Dodge county, at an early date and died in that city.
In his political views Dr. Voorus is a consistent republican and a firm be-
liever in the party and its principles. He belongs to the Methodist church and
is active in the affairs of that organization. He has been identified with the
Masonic order for forty years but beyond this has no affiliations outside of his
connection with professional organizations. He belongs to the American Med-
ical Association and to the Wisconsin State and Dodge County Medical Societies.
He is a loyal son of Rush Medical College and keeps up his connection with its
affairs by his activities in the alumni. He has always been interested in educa-
tional affairs, and as superintendent of schools of Beaver Dam, a position which
he held for five years, he did efficient and capable work. He is one of the widely
known and popular physicians in his section of the country. His residence in
Wisconsin dates from the early times of its pioneer settlement. He can re-
member walking four miles to see the first threshing machine ever operated in
connection with a fanning mill, and when his parents first settled in the county
there was not another horse in the township where they located, all the work
being done by ox teams. Every year of his residence in this section has brought
Dr. Voorus increasing success and popularity. His professional practice is con-
tinually growing and the efficiency of his methods entitle him to a high and
honorable place among his colleagues.
HENRY GLANDER.
Henry Glander, owner of one of the best improved farms in Hubbard town-
ship, is a worthy native son of Dodge county and has long been numbered among
its most substantial agriculturists and highly esteemed citizens. He was born on
his father's homestead in Hubbard township, the date of his birth being March 23.
1863. His parents, Christian and Frederika (Pagel) Glander, were natives of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
259
Germany. The father was born in that country, March 15, 1823, and came to
America in 1858. Both passed away in this county.
Henry Glander was reared at home and aided in the work of the farm until
his marriage in 1891, when he obtained from his father the property which he now
operates. It is a fine tract of productive land and is highly improved in every
particular, much of this work having been accomplished by Mr. Glander, who
erected a fine barn and other outbuildings and remodeled the residence, installing
complete equipment for hot water heating. The soil, which is naturally fertile,
yields abundant harvests and these prove a gratifying source of revenue to
him, while his good business ability and close application have gained for him
rank among the progressive and prosperous agriculturists of the section.
Mr. Glander married in 1891 Miss Rosetta Meyer, who was born in New Cas-
sel, Wisconsin, August 6, 1865, a daughter of Benedick and Sophia (Bosin)
Meyer, natives of Germany. Her father was born March 19, 1822, and came to
America in the early days, dying in Wisconsin. He is survived by his widow,
who was horn in Germany, October 5, 1833. Mr. and Mrs. Glander have three
children : Marcella, who was born April 7, 1892 ; Edna, whose birth occurred
September 17, 1893; an< * Meta, who was born May 12, 1895. Mr. Glander sup-
ports the democratic party, being a firm believer in the principles and policies
for which it stands. He belongs to the Lutheran church and is known as a
man of exemplary character. That many of his closest friends are numbered
among those who know him from boyhood is an indication that his has been
an honorable and upright life and that he is well worthy of the esteem in which
he is uniformly held.
C. HUSTING.
O. C. Husting is secretary of the Beaver Dam City Mutual Fire Insurance
Company, which he founded and organized, and has been identified with its
affairs since 1905. He is a native son of Wisconsin, having been born in Fond
du Lac, November 12, 1864, a son of John P. and Mary (Juneau) Husting, the
former a native of Luxemburg, Germany, and the latter of Milwaukee. Their
marriage occurred in Theresa in 1862 and immediately afterward they located
in Fond du Lac, moving from that city to Mayville in 1876. They are now
residing in the latter city.
O. C. Husting received his early education in the German-English Academy
at Fond du Lac and completed his studies in the public schools of Mayville.
At the age of seventeen he laid aside his books and clerked in various mercan-
tile establishments in Mayville for five years, abandoning this line of activity
in order to go to Milwaukee, where he accepted a position in the stock depart-
ment of a wholesale house. He advanced rapidly and was soon sent upon the
road as a traveling salesman, working in this capacity for six years. In 1897 he
moved to Theresa and established himself in the general mercantile business,
conducting a store for eight years. His residence in Beaver Dam dates from
1905, in which year he organized the Beaver Dam City Mutual Fire Insurance
Company, with which he is connected as secretary.
260
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On December 18, 1896, Mr. Husting was united in marriage to Miss Abbie
Costello, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Miles Costello, of Columbus, Nebraska.
Mrs. Husting is one in a family of eight children and was born on a farm near
Elgin, Illinois, on January 11, 1866.
Politically Mr. Husting gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is
well known in local affairs. He was appointed to the position of city clerk of
Beaver Dam to fill an unexpired term and reelected to a full term but resigned
on account of other business interests. He also was made a member of the police
and fire commission by Mayor Merlach in recognition of his able and conscien-
tious services. Fraternally Mr. Husting is a member of the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows and also of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is secretary
of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and well known in the affairs of the Beaver
Reserve Fund Fraternity. He maintains in both his business and his political
life high standards of honor and integrity and these have made his insurance
enterprise prosperous and his public career more honorable and worthy.
FREDERICK SETTE.
Frederick Settc of Iron Ridge is proprietor of several cheese factories in
Herman township. His able conduct of this enterprise make him a power in
business circles of his section, while his capable discharge of his duties as post-
master of Iron Ridge gives him prominence in a more public way. He was born
in Clyman township, April 7, 1858, a son of Martin and Carolina (Meyer)
Sette, natives of Brandenburg, Germany, who came to America in the early '40s
and settled in Clyman township, where the father purchased land and engaged
in farming until his death, which occurred in April, 1904. His wife survived
him until May, 1911.
Frederick Sette received his early education in the public schools of his
native section and later attended the Northwestern University at Watertown. At
the age of eighteen he worked as a farm hand during the summer months but
still continued his studies in the winter. When he had finally completed his
education he obtained a position, selling machinery and pianos and organs,
until his marriage in 1880. Afterward he moved to Racine and there for five
years worked as a painter and paper hanger before he moved to Woodland,
where he engaged in the manufacture of brick cheese. He still operates this
factory, making only the well known Badger brand of cheese, which finds a
ready sale in all states of the Union. November, 1901, he moved to Iron Ridge,
where he operated a general store for three years and then disposed of his
interest in this business in order to establish himself as a hardware merchant.
After three years he was appointed postmaster, assuming office April 10, 1907,
and is still serving, discharging his duties ably and conscientiously.
On January 30, 1880, Mr. Sette was united in marriage to Miss Katherine
Hein, who was born in Herman township, March ti. i860, a daughter of Nich-
olas and Mary (Herker) Hein, natives of the Rhine province, Prussia, who
came to America in 1849 and located in Herman township on a farm near Iron
Ridge. This property they later sold and moved into Woodland, where the
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
261
father passed away in 1875. The mother survives and lives in Milwaukee. Mr.
and Mrs. Settcare the parents of four children. Edward, born April 3, 1881,
was married in Old Mexico, his wife being of Spanish descent. He is now
engaged in the automobile business in Douglas, Arizona. Sophia Mary, born
March 5, 1884, is engaged in the millinery business in Kenosha. Frances, born
December io, 1889, was formerly engaged in teaching school and is now resid-
ing with her sister, Sophia Mary. Frederick E., the youngest member of the
family, was born January 30, 1895, and is a student in the high school at Horicon.
Mr. Sette gives his allegiance to the republican party and is well known in
local affairs. He served as justice of the peace for many years and is at the
present time notary public and postmaster. He is one of Dodge county's most
enterprising and successful native sons and has gained distinct and substantial
prosperity by practical business methods and an integrity which is beyond all
question.
RUDOLF KRAUT.
Since Rudolf Kraut was twenty-six years of age he has been closely con-
nected with agricultural interests in Dodge county and for a number of years
has been carrying on general farming and dairying upon one hundred and fifty
acres of land near Woodland. He was born in Lebanon township, March 22,
1854, and is a son of Christ and Gusta (Kulike) Kraut, natives of Germany.
The father came to America in the early '50s and died in Lebanon township,
Dodge county. Christ Kraut after coming to America worked for others for
a time but later purchased forty acres of land in Lebanon township which he
owned at the time of his death. The mother of our subject resides in Hustis-
ford township.
Rudolf Kraut attended the German schools in Hustisford township and
after he had completed his education aided his father upon the home farm until
he was twenty-six years of age. At that time he began his independent career,
renting a tract of land which he operated for one year. He carried on general
agricultural pursuits for eight years on another rented farm and for twelve
years on still another property. At the end of that time he moved to another
tract of land but after four years, in 1904, bought a farm of one hundred and
fifty acres, upon which he has since resided. One hundred and twenty acres of
this are under cultivation and thirty acres is marsh and timber land. Mr.
Kraut has made extensive improvements in his farm buildings and intends to
erect a fine new silo in the near future. Everything on his place is in excellent
condition and shows the result of care and attention.
On October 16, 1879, Mr. Kraut was united in marriage to Miss Augusta
Lindert, a native of Germany and a daughter of John and Augusta (Rehse)
Lindcrt. The father was born in Germany, October to. 1823, and died in Hub-
bard township, Dodge county, July 10, 1892. The mother's birth occurred also
in the fatherland, her natal day being July 2t, 1829. She is still living and
resides with her son in Hubbard township. Mr. and Mrs. Kraut have six chil-
dren : Martha, who was born April 29, 1882. and who married Felix Rocsler.
262
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of Hustisford township; Frank, who was born March 7, 1884; Francis, born
January 15, 1886; Henry, whose birth occurred January 29, 1888; Walter, who
was born August 27, 1892; and Minnie, born November II, 1894. The family
are members of the Lutheran church.
Mr. Kraut gives his allegiance to the democratic party but is not active
politically, his entire attention being absorbed in the conduct of his farm. His
labors have done much to raise agricultural standards and to promote the spread
of progressive methods of farm operation and his success is well merited, for
he is capable in management and displays untiring industry in carrying forward
his interests.
AUGUST D. VOLKMAN.
August D. Volkman is engaged in the furniture, undertaking and automobile
business in Iron Ridge and has for three years given his attention entirely to its
conduct. In a short time he has built up a flourishing patronage, basing his
prosperity upon progressive methods and honorable standards. He is a native
son of Dodge county, born in Hubbard township, August 27, 1867, a son of
William and Albertina (Genz) Volkman, natives of Germany, the former born
August 9, 1838, and the latter on the 25th of March, 1841. The father came
to America with his parents when he was a child of eight years and with them
settled in Watertown, where he grew to maturity. His wife also came to Amer-
ica at an early date, settling in Wisconsin with her parents when she was ten
years of age. In this state their marriage occurred and soon afterward they
moved to Herman township and from there two years later to Hubbard town-
ship. In that section they are still residing, the father devoting his time to
farming. In their family were five children : William, who is serving as sheriff
of Dodge county ; August D., of this review ; Edward B., who is engaged in
the real-estate business at Watertown : Albert, who is farming in Herman town-
ship; and Albertina, the wife of George Ilennig. a farmer of Herman township.
August D. Volkman attended school at Brown's Corners, Hubbard town-
ship, and later was a student in the German schools in Herman township. He
remained at home until 1891, in which year he purchased from his father one
hundred and twenty acres of land in Mubbard township, to which he later
added forty acres, and upon this property he resided until 1909, when he dis-
posed of his holdings and moved to Iron Ridge, where he established himself
in the furniture, undertaking and automobile business, an enterprise which has
steadily expanded since that time. He keeps a modern and complete stock of
house furnishings, never allowing his lines to become broken or out of date,
and his extensive patronage attests his success. The automobile department
is a business in itself and has reached gratifying proportions. The entire es-
tablishment is a thoroughly modern enterprise operated by a true business man
and it shows the result of the energy and efficiency of its owner in increasing
trade.
On April 29, 1894. Mr. Volkman was united in marriage to Miss Emma
Weiss, who was Ixmi in Herman township. August 25. 1870, a daughter of
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
263
William and Albertina (Moesenberg) Weiss, natives of Germany, where the
father served his term in the regular army before coming to America and set-
tling in Dodge county among its early settlers. After his arrival in the United
States William Weiss followed the shoemaking trade for a number of years
and later operated a farm. He is now living retired in Juneau, his wife hav-
ing passed away in November, 1909. Mr. and Mrs. Volkman have four chil-
dren: Irwin W., born February 4, 1895; Clarence G., born March 24, 1901 ;
Inez, born November 17, 1905; and Eugene, born April 18, 1912.
In his political views Mr. Volkman is a consistent democrat and is now
serving his second year as township treasurer. For eight years he was super-
visor and for three years chairman of his township and served with ability and
efficiency for fifteen years as school treasurer, bringing to the discharge of his
official duties a conscientiousness and sense of responsibility which made him
an able and effective public servant. He is a true type of the modern business
man, shrewd and keen, with a discriminating knowledge of values and the abil-
ity to put that knowledge to practical use. His methods are progressive and
effective, but his standards arc the old ones of honesty, straightforward deal-
ing and hard work.
WILLIAM ROBERTS.
William Roberts owns and operates a fine farm of two hundred and fifty
acres, nearly all of which is within the limits of Iron Ridge, and he devotes his
entire time to its management and development. By progressive methods and
well directed energy he has gained success as an agriculturist and has one of the
most productive tracts of land in Dodge county. He has many claims to recogni-
tion as a man whose activities have been effective for good and whose present
career is useful and worthy. He is one of the early settlers in this section and
has witnessed much of its growth and development. He served with distinc-
tion during the Civil war and is at the present time one of the prosperous,
enterprising and representative farmers of Dodge county. He was born in
Utica, Oneida county, New York, October 18, 1843, * s° n ° f Vincent and Try-
phena (Jones) Roberts, the former of whom was born in Wales, March 10, 1818,
and the latter in Oneida county, New York, February 3, 1822. The father came
to America with his parents in 1828 and settled immediately in Oneida county,
where he grew to manhood. He worked upon neighboring farms until his mar-
riage and afterward engaged in the restaurant business until 1845, when he and
his family came west and settled on a farm in Emmet township. After two
years this property was sold and they moved to the vicinity of Iron Ridge,
where the father bought land which is now operated by the subject of this
review. It was a tract of raw land and had to be cleared of brush and timber
before the work of cultivation could be begun. Upon this Vincent Roberts
lived, developing the property and bringing it to a high state of cultivation before
his death, which occurred on the 5th of October. 1888. His wife died June 9,
1887. The father was well known not only as a farmer but also as a private
banker, in which line of activity he did a flourishing business for some time.
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264
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
He was prominent in local republican politics and served as justice of the peace
for a number of years. He and his wife were the parents of ten children:
William, of this review; John, who when last heard of, in 1893, was residing
in the west ; Vincent, who resides with the subject of this review ; David, who
is engaged in the real-estate business in West Allis, Wisconsin, and who is serv-
ing as city treasurer; George W., of Hortonville, who is a traveling salesman,
representing the Robert Elliott Company, commission merchants of Milwau-
kee; A. C, who makes his home with his brother William; R. W., deceased,
who was a prominent banker in Milwaukee and the owner of three banks in
northern Wisconsin; Lydia Ann, the wife of James Wiggins, formerly engaged
in farming near Rubicon, and now residents of Hartford, Wisconsin ; Mary,
the widow of L. E. Wheeler, formerly a potato buyer, residing in Randolph
township, Dodge county; and Lovina Lutina, the wife of Bert Day, a real-estate
dealer of Fond du Lac.
William Roberts attended school in Emmet township and later in Iron
Ridge. When he was eighteen years of age he went to Jacksonville, Illinois,
and there for one season worked as a farm hand. Returning home, he re-
sumed his interrupted studies but afterward again went to Jacksonville, where
he obtained a position as attendant in the Insane Asylum. In the following year
he returned to his birthplace, Utica, New York, and while on a visit there en-
listed in the Federal army, joining Company E, Fourteenth New York Heavy
Artillery, on October 10, 1863, and served under Captain Flagg, of Janesville,
Wisconsin, until the end of the war. He was present at most of the important
engagements during his term of service and never missed a day's duty. He re-
ceived no disabling wounds and was never taken prisoner nor confined in a hos-
pital. At the close of hostilities he was mustered out and immediately returned
to Dodge county, where he remained for a short time upon a farm. Afterward
he accepted a position as brakeman on the northern division of the Chicago,
Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad and retained this connection for two years, at
the end of which time he returned to the farm and for some years assisted his
father. Later he conducted a grain elevator and lumberyard in Iron Ridge but
abandoned the operation of this enterprise upon his father's death, when he
assumed charge of the homestead and has developed it since that time. The
improvements which he has made upon his property and the new and progressive
standards to which he has steadily adhered have made it one of the model agri-
cultural enterprises in this section of the county and have gained him recogni-
tion as an enterprising and successful agriculturist.
In October, 1867, Mr. Roberts was united in marriage to Miss Mary Brown,
who was born in Emmet township, a daughter of Lemuel and Lydia (Ferguson)
Brown, natives of New York state, who came to Wisconsin in the early '40s and
settled upon a farm in Emmet township. Later they moved to Missouri, where
both died some time afterward. Mrs. Roberts is the eldest in a family of four
children. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts are the parents of a daughter, Clara Belle, who
lives with her parents. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church.
Mr. Roberts gives his allegiance to the republican party and has served as
deputy sheriff and as agent for the Wisconsin Humane Society, in Dodge county.
He is prominent in the affairs of the Masonic order, holding membership in the
lodge at Neosho. However, he gives practically his entire time and attention
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
265
to the development of his farm along systematic and progressive lines. He has
made substantial improvements upon his place and has added greatly to its
value by keeping it modern in its equipment and up-to-date in its various depart-
ments. An able and enterprising business man, his keen sagacity and industry
constitute the basis of his distinct and substantial prosperity.
STEPHEN N. CAMPBELL.
Stephen N. Campbell, son of James Campbell and Elizabeth (Gould) Camp-
bell, was born in Toronto, Canada, December 18, 1839, and was but a little lad
when his father died. He pursued his education in the schools of his native
country but his opportunities in that direction were somewhat limited for when
but eleven or twelve years of age he began providing for his own support.
He was employed by his elder brothers and worked in other connections and at
all times manifested the industry and diligence which characterized him through-
out his entire life. A removal was made at an early day to the vicinity of Mil-
waukee where land was entered from the government, but becoming ill the
brothers left that district and gave up their land. Stephen N. Campbell after-
ward went to Berlin, Wisconsin, where he was connected with his brothers in
the marble business. He later went to Fond du Lac, where he carried on a
similar enterprise until 1880. In that year he removed to Horicon and became
interested in the Van Brunt factory, being elected vice president of the com-
pany, in which capacity he continued until his death on the 3d of April, 1906.
Throughout the intervening period of more than a quarter of a century his
undivided time and attention were given to the Van Brunt interests, which are
mentioned at length on another page of this work in connection with the sketch
of Willard A. Van Brunt. He was systematic and methodical in all that he
undertook, resolute and determined in what he accomplished and possessed of
enterprising spirit which brooked no obstacles that could be overcome by per-
sistent labor and careful management.
It was on the 15th of January, 1880, that Mr. Campbell was united in mar-
riage to Miss Ida M. Van Brunt, who was born at Mayville, Wisconsin, and
is a daughter of Daniel C. and Mary (Wright) Van Brunt. To Mr. and Mrs
Campbell has been born one son, Willard Van Brunt, whose birth occurred
May 2, 1881. He was married June 28. 1905, to Minnie M. Warren, who was
born at Waupun, Wisconsin, December 5. 1880. He has for several years been
engaged in the automobile businesss in Minneapolis but has recently sold out
and removed to Med ford, Oregon, where he owns a large fruit ranch, to the
further development of which he devotes his energies.
Mr. Campbell was a prominent Mason, having attained the thirty-second
degree of the Scottish Rite. He also belonged at one time to the Elks lodge at
Fond du Lac but withdrew from that organization. His widow is a member of
the Eastern Star at Beaver Dam and is also connected with the Daughters of
the American Revolution at Milwaukee. The religious faith of Mr. Campbell
was that of the Episcopal church, to the teachings of which he was ever loyal
and devoted. His political views accorded with the principles of the democratic
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
party and that he was a prominent and influential citizen is indicated by the fact
that he served several terms as mayor of Horicon. Businesslike qualities char-
acterized his administration, which was at all times actuated by a spirit of de-
votion to the public good. The residence which Mrs. Campbell now occupies
was in course of construction at the time of her husband's death. His business
record was one of intense activity in which was accorded due recognition of
labor. He could look beyond the exigencies of the moment to the opportun-
ities of the future and he was above all practical, so that his labors were re-
sultant. It was not alone because of his business ability, however, that Mr.
Campbell was greatly respected by his fellow townsmen. He manifested qual-
ities of public-spirited citizenship and at all times he held friendship inviolable.
His sterling traits as a man and citizen commended him to the good-will and
warm regard of all with whom he was associated.
Germany has given to America many of her upright, sturdy and enterprising
sons, who have brought to the new world the best of their national character-
istics to the attainment of honorable achievements. Wisconsin is fortunate in
numbering among her sons many men of German birth and parentage, among
whom may be mentioned William Bohnenstengel, who cultivates an excellent
farm of one hundred and forty acres near Iron Ridge and who for many years
has been closely connected with agricultural interests in that section. He was
born in Pomerania, Germany, August 15, 1864, and is a son of Frederick and
Henrietta (Sauk) Bohnenstengel, both natives of the fatherland. Frederick
Uohnenstengel was born in Pomerania in May, 181 5, where he died February
13, 1872. His wife was born on the 9th of January, 1827, and her death occur-
red in Germany, January 10, 1872.
William Bohnenstengel began his active life when he was fourteen years
of age. He completed his education in the public schools of his native country
and then worked as a farm hand until the age of seventeen. At that time he
crossed the Atlantic to America and settled at Iron Ridge, Wisconsin, where for
a short time he worked in the iron mines. Determining, however, to follow agri-
cultural pursuits, he rented a farm and after five years purchased one hundred
and forty acres in the vicinity, upon which he has since resided. Twenty-five
acres arc lowland but the rest of the farm is rich and productive and yields
abundant harvests every year. This property is highly improved, being pro-
vided not only with an excellent residence but also with a fine new barn forty
feet wide by ninety-six feet long and all the machinery which are used in farm-
ing by modern methods. Mr. Bohnenstengel engages in general farming but
gives special attention to the conduct of his dairy, which is kept clean and sani-
tary in every particular. He is well known throughout the county and his
straightforward business methods and enterprising spirit have gained him re-
spect.
On March 15, 1886, Mr. Bohnenstengel married Miss Recke Zietlow, who
was born in Pomerania, Germany, January 13. 1862. She is a daughter of John
WILLIAM BOHNENSTENGEL.
-.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
267
and Recke (Froelich) Zictlow, both of whom were born in Germany and died
in America. Mr. and Mrs. Bohnenstengel have three children: William, Jr.,
who was born December 25, 1887; Otto, born April 13, 1892; and Martha, born
January 9, 1894. All the children live at 'home. The family are devout adher-
ents of the German Lutheran church.
Mr. Bohnenstengel gives his allegiance to the republican party. There are
few citizens in Dodge county more widely and favorably known, for his en-
terprising and progressive spirit has made him successful in business and his
many sterling qualities of mind and character have gained him the warm and
lasting regard of those with whom he has been brought into contact.
HARRY B. SEARS, M. D.
Dr. Harry B. Sears, a well known medical practitioner of Beaver Dam, Wis-
consin, was born on March 6, 1858, in Byron, Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin,
and is a son of Harry A. and Adclia D. (Palmer) Sears. The paternal grand-
father, Harry Sears, married Miss Almira Gardner, who was born in 1798. On
the maternal side our subject is descended from Nelson H. Palmer, whose birth
occurred in 1807. Harry A. Sears, the father, was a native of Springville, Eric
county, New York, where his birth occurred October 10, 1818. He was reared
at home and educated in the public schools of Hamilton county, New York.
He came west in 1853 and located at Waukesha, Wisconsin, where he remained
for some time. He was well known in religious circles and a devout adherent
of the Baptist faith. When he later located in Fond du Lac county he took up
a tract of government land and engaged in agricultural pursuits for'many years.
He was the organizer of the Baptist church at Campbellsport and was well known
as a man of exemplary character. He died on July 22, 1887. His wife's death
had preceded his and occurred on April 18, 1880. They were married on May
29, 1855, at Waukesha and were the parents of four children : Almira A., whose
birth occurred March 2. 1856; Harry, our subject, is the next in order of birth;
Carrie A., born May 27, 1865, who is the wife of C. P. Doolittle; and John E ,
born August 13, 1867, who is a resident of Buhl, Idaho.
Dr. Sears was educated in the public schools of Fond du Lac and later at-
tended high school in that city. He supplemented this by a course in the Osh-
kosh State Normal School and in 1882 was graduated from Rush Medical Col-
lege in Chicago with the degree of M. D. He located for practice at Ishpeming,
Michigan, and spent one year there, removing to Hermansville, that state, and
also remaining a year before he established his residence in Beaver Dam in 1884.
He realized the need for specialization in these modern days of medical prac-
tice and entered Rush Medical College to take a course in eye, ear, nose and
throat surgery. He has also taken post-graduate work in Chicago. From the
very beginning his success has been rapid. The number of his patients is grow-
ing yearly and increases as his ability and medical skill become better known
Dr. Sears is affiliated with the various organizations connected with his profes-
sion. He is a member of the American Medical Association and in the Wiscon-
sin State Medical Society has held the office of councillor for seven years. He
268
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
has been vice president of this organization since 1908 and in his work in these
capacities has given evidence of his ability and knowledge.
On November 9, 1887, Dr. Sears was united in marriage to Miss Jennie L.
Germain, a daughter of Columbus and Emily (Brower) Germain, of Beaver
Dam, and to their union three children were born : Harry G., whose birth oc-
curred September 13, 1888, and who died March 9, of the following year; Janet
A., born March 14, 1890, who is living at home; and Harry J., born January 12,
1893, who is a student at the Whitewater Normal School. Dr. Sears' second
marriage occurred November 11, 1903, when he wedded Miss Elizabeth Rober-
son, a daughter of Fletcher and Sarah (McPherson) Roberson. By this union
he is the father of two children, George Roberson, born September 12, 1904,
and Robert McPherson, born July 6, 1906. Dr. Sears is not affiliated with any
political party, preferring to follow the dictates of his conscience and judgment
in support of measures and candidates, whom he considers in the light of effi-
ciency and ability relative to the office to which they aspire.
George W. Theisen, a native son of Dodge county, prominent in its politics
and active in its business life, died at his home in Juneau, July 29, 191 1. For
almost a quarter of a century he had been engaged in various important local
enterprises and had done much constructive work in development, and his death
deprived his native section of one of its most prominent, substantial and repre-
sentative citizens. He was born in Lomira, Dodge county, February 22. 1869,
a son of Frank and Elizabeth (Mandery) Theisen, natives of Germany, who
were early settlers in Dodge county In Lomira the father conducted a general
store and saloon until the time of his death. His wife survived him for many
years, dying in Milwaukee.
After completing his primary education in the public schools of Lomira,
George W. Theisen attended Meyer's Business College in Milwaukee, and then
kept books for a Milwaukee wholesale house, after which he conducted his
father's store for a number of years. After his marriage in 1891, he purchased
the stock and continued the business for two years, when the enterprise was
sold. Six months later Mr. Theisen purchased a fine business building and a
stock of general merchandise in Lomira, conducting this business for a number
of years and then traded it for a neighboring farm, which he improved and
operated for a time. During the two years which he spent upon his farm he
was elected clerk of the circuit court and upon his reelection moved to Juneau,
where he purchased a comfortable and pleasant home in which he resided until
his death. During his term as clerk of the court he sold his farm and after mov-
ing to this city he gradually became interested in local business enterprises,
prominent among which was the Juneau Automatic Carrier Company.
On January 6, 1891, Mr. Theisen was united in marriage to Miss Matilda
Kiefer, who was born at Fond du Lac, December 25, 1869, a daughter of Peter
and Halbina (Ruff) Kiefer, the former a native of Germany and the latter of
Fond du Lac. The father came to America with his parents when a small boy.
GEORGE W. THEISEN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
269
The family settled in Lomira, where Peter Kiefer remained until he began his
own career. He then went to Fond du Lac, where for some time he engaged
in the butcher business. About 1872 he purchased land at Oak Center, Fond
du Lac county, and thereon resided until 1882, when he disposed of his holdings
and moved to a farm near Portage, which he improved and developed, selling it
eventually and returning to Fond du Lac, where he is now living retired. His
wife passed away in 1871. The wife of our subject was the only child born
to their union. To Mr. and Mrs. Theisen nine children were born: Olivia, born
December 3, 1891 ; George, born January 2, 1893; Felix, born January 20, 1894;
John, who was born August 6, 1895, and died on September 29 of the same year;
Cecilia, born October 8, 1896; Agatha, born October 19, 1898; Eugene, born
April 16, 1900; Margaret, born July 11, 1902; and Ruth, born August 3, 1904-
Mr. Theisen gave his poltical allegiance to the democratic party and was
active and prominent in local affairs. For eight years he served as clerk of the
county court and previous to that time had been justice of the peace. This
office he again held after completing his term as clerk of the court and was active
in the discharge of its duties at the time of his death. For several years he
served on the state central committee, bringing to his public life the same con-
scientiousness, ability and resourceful energy which made his business career
prosperous and successful. He was a devout adherent of the Roman Catholic
church and his religion was a vital force in his life. He belonged to the Catholic
Knights and to the Catholic Order of Foresters and was active in the affairs of
both organizations. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
The prominence of the place which he gained during his life and the importance
of the work which he did is evidenced by the widespread regret which his death
caused. In politics he was upright, conscientious and honorable and in business
thoroughly straightforward and sincere, yet his truest happiness lay in his home
life and he found his real contentment in being surrounded by his family, who
loved and honored him for his personal qualities, his kindliness, his considera-
tion, his unfailing courtesy, and mourned at his death a well beloved husband
and father.
JAMES A. BUNNELL.
James A. Bunnell, connected with the Albert Lea Gas Light Company, has in
various ways been identified with the commercial and industrial interests of Cly-
man and is still the owner of the largest store building of that village. He has a
wide acquaintance here, substantial qualities of manhood and citizenship having
gained him high regard. He was born in Clyman township, November 5, 1855,
and is a son of Andrew Jackson and Mary Jane (Miller) Bunnell, who were
natives of the state of New York. The father became proprietor of a hotel and
general mercantile business at Grand Rapids, Wisconsin, to which city he removed
at an early day, but left there in 1854. He also engaged in the logging business in
that part of the state but subsequently came to Clyman township, Dodge county,
and died at the home of his father-in-law in the year 1855, about six months before
the birth of his son James. His widow continued a resident of Clyman township
270
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
with the exception of one year at Campbell, Minnesota, until her death, which
occurred on the 5th of September, 1881. She had married again, becoming the
wife of Robert Glover, who is also deceased. By her first marriage she had two
children, the elder dying in infancy.
James A. Bunnell began his education in the district schools of his native
township and also spent one year in study at Watertown. He remained with his
mother until he had attained his majority, about which time he became owner of
one hundred and sixty acres of land in Clyman township and operated the farm
for almost two decades, or until 1891, carefully and systematically cultivating the
fields which returned to him golden harvests. In 1891 he also became proprietor
of a general hardware and agricultural implement business, which he conducted
while carrying on farm work. In the year in which he established the business he
returned to Clyman but in 1893 rented the building and sold his stock of hard-
ware and agricultural implements. He then resumed farming, purchasing land in
Fond du Lac county, whereon he resided for four years. He then disposed of
that property and once more became a resident of Clyman, where he again con-
ducted a hardware business for a period of three years. After disposing of the
stock he went upon the road as a traveling salesman, handling threshing machines,
shredders and other farm machinery for about four years. He next became con-
nected with the Austin — Weston Company, selling road-building machinery a
part of the time for about ten years, subsequently he lived retired until the spring
of 1912, but indolence and idleness are truly foreign to his nature and he reentered
business circles, engaging with the Albert Lea Gas Light Company, with which he
is still connected. He is the owner of the largest store building in Clyman, now
occupied by the firm of Morgan & Young, hardware dealers, who are mentioned
elsewhere in this volume. He is also the owner of a half acre of ground upon
which his residence stands and two valuable lots in North .Milwaukee, and like-
wise has one hundred shares of stock in the North American iron mine, near
Tower, Minnesota.
On the 28th of February, 1878, .Mr. Bunnell married Miss Jennie E. Ennison.
who was born in Emmet township, this county, May 15, 1857, and is a daughter
of William and Jessie (Bertie) Ennison. The mother's birth 'occurred in Dundee,
Scotland, July 6, 1824, while the father was born in Ireland, March 22, 1818. of
English parentage. They were married in Emmet township, Dodge county, the
father having come to America when a young man and, after residing for a num-
ber of years in Massachusetts, removed to Wisconsin, taking up his abode in
Emmet township. There he purchased a tract of land and continued faming
until 1866. when he sold that property and removed to the village of Clyman.
where he lived practically retired, although he sold farm machinery to some
extent. He filled the office of justice of the peace and was chairman of the town
board. He likewise served as town clerk and was ever loyal and faithful in the
discharge of his official duties. In early life he taught school for a number of
terms and was a man of liberal education and progressive spirit. He died
October 31, 1875, and the mother, who survives him, makes her home during
the greater part of the time with Mr. Bunnell. She had been previously married
to James Aimer, who died in Boston, and there were three children born to
that union: Mary, who is the widow of William Christie and resides near St.
Charles, Minnesota; Jessie, who is the wife of James Lowth and makes her
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
271
home with her son at Janesville, Wisconsin; and Margaret, who is the widow of
George Clair and lives near Cottonwood, Minnesota. By the second marriage
there were five children : Jennie E., the wife of our subject ; Anna, the wife of
James Gibb, living at Cottonwood, Minnesota; Nellie, the wife of Charles Vehrns,
of Eldorado, Wisconsin; James, deceased; and William, whose home is in La
Crosse, Wisconsin. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bunnell :
Myrtle Jeannette, who is the wife of H. L. Morgan; and Mabel Jessie, the wife
of L. J. Young. The former was born January 28, 1880, and the latter April 1,
1889.
The family is well known in Clyman, where Mr. Bunnell has lived for many
years, his sterling traits of character winning him the kindly regard and warm
friendship of those with whom he has been associated. There have been no
spectacular phases in his life, but activity and reliability in business, and fidelity
and trustworthiness in other relations have gained him a place with the worthy
and representative citizens of his community.
W. R. OWEN.
W. R. Owen is one of the oldest stock shippers in Dodge county in point of
continuous identification with that line of work and is one of the leading and
foremost men in business, political and social circles of Westford. He was born
in Oneida county, New York, in 1848, a son of John R. Owen, a native of North
Wales, born about the year 1818. The latter came to this country when he was
eighteen years of age, the first of a family of thirteen to settle in America. He
located near Rome, New York, and from there subsequently came direct to the
vicinity of Randolph, Wisconsin, settling one and one-half miles southwest of the
village. He bought a farm of Jerry Williams and upon this property he lived
for many years, cultivating and improving it until his death. He is buried in
Randolph. In Rome, New York, he married Miss Mary Jones and to them two
children were born. John R. Owen contracted subsequently a second union by
which eight children were born. The ten children are as follows : Jennie, born
in 1846, married John J. Loomis, of Oneida county, New York. W. R., the
subject of this sketch, is the second in order of birth. Mary, born in 1854, the
first child of the second marriage, married E. P. Jones and they reside in
Randolph. Katherine, born in 1856, married George Button, who passed away
at Milton Junction. Margaret, born in 1858, has been twice married. Her first
union was with Dr. Green, whose death occurred in Beaver Dam. Her second
union was with Fremont Potter and they now reside in Sparta, Wisconsin. John
H., born in i860, married Margaret Pohl, of 'Milton Junction, and they became
the parents of four children, three of whom survive. Fannie, born in 1862,
became the wife of Gilbert I'.urdick, of Randolph, in which city her death
occurred in 1882. Ida, born in 1864, married William Beckelkop, of Aberdeen,
South Dakota, and they have four children. Alice, born in 1866, died at the age
of fourteen and is buried in Randolph. George L., born in 1868, is a resident
of Skidmore, Missouri. He married Anna Williams and they have one son.
W. R. Owen was educated in the public schools of New York state and came
272
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
with his father to Wisconsin when he was eighteen years of age. He remained
at home until his marriage and then came to Randolph, where for some time he
was identified with the machinery business. Eventually, however, he became a
stock shipper and has followed this line of occupation since that time, being one
of the oldest shippers in Wisconsin in point of continuous identification with the
business. He is also interested in the Prairie View Canning Company and in
many other important local enterprises.
In 1872 Mr. Owen married Miss Frances R. Thomas, a daughter of Bailey
and Julia Thomas, of Courtland, Columbia county, Wisconsin. Mrs. Owen was
well known in club circles of the city and to her many friends as a charming,
hospitable and talented woman of remarkable social accomplishments. She was
the first matron of the Order of the Eastern Star and held that position at the
time of her death which occurred at Randolph. Her leisure hours were devoted
to art, for which she had a decided talent, and many of her paintings adorn
the walls of her late home. She had a facility for copying from papers and
magazines and did some attractive work in pencil, her pictures showing always
the true artistic instinct. She died in August, 1905, and is buried in Randolph.
Mr. Owen gives his allegiance to the Republican party and is well known in
local politics, having served with ability and distinction for four years as presi-
dent of the village. He is a member of the Masonic order and was a charter
member of Randolph Lodge, No. 270, A. F. & A. M. An early settler in West-
ford, he has been identified with the remarkable growth which the village has
undergone in an industrial way, his labors having been dominating factors in
promoting the activity which means commercial expansion. He has never con-
fined his energies to one line of endeavor but has made his influence felt equally
in politics, in business and in social life, and to him Westford owes much of its
growing prominence along all lines.
B. F. Sherman, with wide acquaintance in journalistic circles throughout
the state because of his long connection with The Argus, was born in Ann Arbor,
Michigan, on the 30th of November, 1836, a son of Benjamin and Jeanette
(Pulsifer) Sherman. The parents died during the early boyhood of their son,
who came to Wisconsin in 1857, when a young man of twenty-one years. He
had previously learned the printer's trade in Michigan and secured employment
in the office of The Citizen, then as now a well known paper of Beaver Dam.
For a year he was in Madison and for a short time in Milwaukee. In the
spring of 1862 he entered the office of The Argus, formerly The Horicon Argus,
which had been established by B. W. Curtis and was removed to Beaver Dam,
where it was first issued in December, 1862. In January, 1863, the paper was
purchased by B. F. Sherman and D. C. Gowdcy, who remained as its proprietors
until the 1st of July, 1884, when Mr. Gowdey sold out to Mr. Sherman, who has
since owned and published The Argus. Frank Hutchins was afterward asso-
ciated with Mr. Sherman on the paper from 1884 until 1891, when his son,
William H. Sherman, became associated with his father in the ownership and
B. F. SHERMAN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
275
editorship of The Argus. The paper has ever maintained rank with the lead-
ing weekly journals of the state. It has shown none of the elements of the
sensational or of "yellow journalism," having always maintained a conservative
as well as a progressive policy, seeking to present a correct account of general
news and of the conditions which affect society at large as well as to give mat-
ters of local interest.
In August, 1859, Mr. Sherman was married to Miss Martha Shuart, of
Beaver Dam, a daughter of Henry and Catherine Shuart, who came to this city
in 1854 from Rockland county, New York. The father was a wagon maker by
trade and followed that pursuit through much of his life. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Sherman were born eight children, of whom three are now deceased, the others
being: William H., who is with his father in business; Catherine, the wife of
George F. Cobb, a resident of Miles City, Montana; and Albert F., Arthur J.
and James B., all of whom are connected with their father in the printing office.
Mr. Sherman holds membership with the Masonic fraternity and the In-
dependent Order of Odd Fellows and has ever been loyal to their teachings.
His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth, ability and fidelity, have fre-
quently called him to local office. He has twice served as city treasurer, has
been a member of the school board and for twenty-one years has been a mem-
ber of the city council — a record unequalled by that of any other alderman. In
1879 he was elected to the state legislature and in 1882 was chosen to represent
his district in the state senate. The public record of few residents of Beaver
Dam has covered a longer period and none has been more faultless in honor,
fearless in conduct and stainless in reputation.
NICHOLAS M. KLINK.
Nicholas M. Klink is superintendent of the Dodge county insane asylum
and poor farm, and although he has been acting in this capacity barely a year,
has shown in this time peculiar fitness for the duties of his office. He was
born in Rubicon township, in February, 1866, a son of Nicholas and Paulina
(Schilinger) Klink, natives of Wittenberg, Germany. His father came to
America when he was about twenty years of age and settled in Wisconsin,
where he worked at farming in the employ of others for several years. Later
he bought land and upon it carried on general agricultural pursuits until a few
years before his death when he moved to Rubicon and lived retired. He passed
away April 20, 1906. His wife survives him and makes her home in Jefferson.
Nicholas M. Klink is the fifth in a family of thirteen children. He attended
the public and German schools in Rubicon and after he laid aside his books,
aided his father in the work of the farm until he was twenty-six years of age.
Then he rented the property from his father and for four years operated and
improved it. At the end of that time he purchased the tract of land which he
now owns in Rubicon township and upon this he resided until January, 19 12.
when he was appointed superintendent of the county insane asylum and poor
farm, assuming his duties on January 3, of the same year.
The county poor farm, over which Mr. Klink has entire charge has an area
of two hundred and twenty acres, one hundred and seventy of which are under
• vol n— 1 «
276
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
cultivation. The average number of inmates in this institution is about forty
and the produce from the farm, which is largely operated by the insane, is suffi-
cient to support all of the inmates. In the Dodge county insane asylum are about
one hundred and forty patients, most of whom are sent there from Dodge
county. There are five employes on the poor farm and seventeen in the insane
asylum. To Mr. Klink is entrusted the entire management of these institutions
and general supervision over the employes. He is fulfilling the responsible
duties in connection with his position with remarkable tact and circumspection,
making the institutions as comfortable as possible for the unfortunates in his
charge, at the lowest expenditure to the taxpayers of the county.
On May 30, 1892, Mr. Klink was united in marriage. to Miss Louisa Engil-
dinger, who was born in Rubicon township, November 20, 1873, a daughter
of Mathias and Barbara (Keefer) Engildinger, the former a native of Germany
and the latter of Paris, France. In that city their marriage occurred and there
they resided for thirteen years, coming to America at the end of that time and
settling immediately in Rubicon township. Here the father engaged in farming
upon land which he purchased and followed this occupation until his death
which occurred in 1891. His wife survived him until April, 1903. They were
the parents of eleven children, of whom Mrs. Klink is the eighth in order of
birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Klink were born seven children: Aaron, whose birth
occurred November 13, 1894; Mathias, born May 27, 1896} Eugene, born Jan-
uary 12, 1899; Vincent, born December 14, 1901 ; Genevieve, whose natal day
was December 30, 1904; Mary, who was born November 15, 1909; and Nicholas,
who was born August 16, 191 1, and died in infancy.
The family belong to the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Klink gives his al-
legiance to the democratic party and has been active in local affairs. He has
been serving in his present capacity only a short time but has discharged his
duties capably and efficiently and always with kindness and consideration for the
unfortunate and the poor, who are dependent upon him. He is a stockholder
in the Auto Truck factory at Juneau and is interested in the growth and expan-
sion of local enterprises. He has done able work during his short period of
service as superintendent of the county insane asylum and poor farm and has
demonstrated the fact that he is the right man in the right place
DAVID K. YORGEY.
David K. Yorgey has with the exception of a short period spent in Mil
waukec been in the employ of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company since he
was fifteen years of age. He was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, April
13, 1854, a son of John M. and Catherine (Davidscisor) Yorgey, both of whom
were born in that county, the father in September, 1831. and the mother on the
9th of April, of the same year. John M. Yorgey was a cabinet-maker by trade
and followed this occupation in Chester county until 1858, when he came to
Milwaukee and there worked at his trade until coming to Iloricon. Here he
established himself in the furniture business conducting this enterprise only a
short time, later becoming identified with the butcher business. About 1859
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
277
he went to Pike's Peak, but eventually returned to Horicon, where he engaged
in carpenter work. Abandoning this occupation he bought a farm near Juneau,
which he operated and developed for three years and then returned to Horicon,
where he was employed in a sash, door and blind .factory. When this establish-
ment was moved to Janesville, he became identified with the Van Brunt Manu-
facturing Company, working for them in the winter months and following his
trade during the summers. He met his death in 1884 in an accident, the scaf-
folding breaking under him while he was working at his trade.
David K. Yorgey attended the public school until he was twelve years of
age. In that year he obtained employment and supported himself, attending
school at night as often as he was able. When he was fifteen, however, he
definitely laid aside his books and began working in the Van Brunt factory as
assistant cutter of sheet iron. After two years he was sent into the machine
shop and worked in that department until 1875, when he determined to go to
Milwaukee. Borrowing ten dollars from a friend, he made the journey and
accepted the first position offered to him, which was that of a bus driver for
Perkins & Reed. He continued this activity until the following October, when
he returned to Horicon and entered the employ of the Van Brunt & Davis
Company, where he remained until 1891. He retained his identification when
the factory was removed to Minneapolis and when he returned to Horicon in
1009 entered the employ of the Van Brunt Manufacturing Company as super-
intendent of the main factory building, which position he still holds. He has
accumulated a comfortable fortune which he has invested in local enterprises,
owning valuable residence property in Horicon. He has also put his money
in real estate in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, where he has important holdings.
On September 10, 1879, Mr. Yorgey was united in marriage to Miss Hattie
M. Clement, who was born in Barnston, Canada, February 9, 1855, a daughter
of John B. and Clarissa (Clifford) Clement. John B. Clement's maternal grand-
father, John Bellous, came from England and" served as an officer on the staff
of General Burgoyne. The Clement family claims connection with one of the
popes by that name. John B. Clement was born in Vermont, September 7, 181 3,
and the mother in New Hampshire, March 16 of the following year. John B.
Clement was a carpenter in his earlier years and followed this occupation in
Canada until 1857, when he came to Dodge county and settled at Burnett Junc-
tion, where he worked at his trade until 1869. In that year he went to Minne-
sota and obtained employment as a railroad carpenter. He also took up a
homestead claim, upon which he later moved and resided until his death, which
occurred in March, 1910. For many years he was prominent in local politics,
doing able work as justice of the peace. His wife passed away in 1900. In
their family were ten children, of whom Mrs. Yorgey is the youngest. To Mr.
and Mrs. Yorgey were born four children: Flora Bell, who resides at home;
Katherine, who is living in Minneapolis; David K., whose death occurred Feb-
ruary 21, 1910; and Hattie, at home.
Mr. Yorgey is prominent in the Masonic order, holding membership in the
lodge, chapter, commandery and shrine, and is also identified with the Order of
the Eastern Star and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. During the forty-
three years of his identification with the Van Brunt interests he has given to
278
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
his employers faithful service and expert labor. His advancement has been
rapid and his present position is one of importance. He has stood well the
hard test of responsibility and by making good use of his talents, abilities and
opportunities has made his life distinctly successful and his name honored and
esteemed in the city in which he resides.
FREDERICK HAROLD CLAUSEN.
Frederick Harold Clausen is factory manager of the Van Brunt Manufactur-
ing Company at Horicon and brings to the duties of his responsible position an
energy, intelligence and a high standard of business morality which are the
qualities upon which he has founded his success. He has held other important
offices with the company and as a lawyer his services have been often called
upon during the years of his identification with the enterprise. He was born
at Fox Lake, October 22, 1875, and is a son of Henry and Lena (Christian-
sen) Clausen. The father was born in Denmark, November 25, 1845, and
the mother's birth occurred in Muskegon, Michigan, on the 19th of June, 1856.
Henry Clausen left home when he was twelve years of age in order to be-
come a sailor and spent eight years upon the ocean. He came to Milwaukee
in 1865 and made that city his home until 1871, sailing for six years upon the
great lakes. At the end of that time he abandoned his occupation and went
to Fox Lake, where until 1908 he was successful in the grain business. In
that year he retired from active life. He is one of the representative citizens
of his community and has served a number of times as president of Fox Lake.
He has also done able work as a member of the school board and is actively
interested in the progress and development of his community. He and his wife
became the parents of five children: Frederick Harold, the subject of this re-
view; Leon, who is factory manager of the Dain Manufacturing Company of
Ottumwa, Iowa; Harry, who passed away when he was twenty-one years of
age, while he was still pursuing his education at the Wisconsin State Univer-
sity; Elna, who lives at home; and one, who died in infancy.
Frederick H. Clausen received his education in the public schools of Fox
Lake. He later entered the University of Wisconsin, completing the historical
and scientific course and graduating with the class of 1897. He immediately
afterward entered the law department and received the degree of LL. B. in
1899. He never practiced independently but became identified with the Van
Brunt Company as attorney and private secretary to the president in the year
following his graduation. These positions he occupied until the death of D.
C. Van Brunt, the founder of the enterprise, who was at that time president,
and Mr. Clausen continued his duties under W. A. Van Brunt, who succeeded
to the office. In 1905 he was appointed advertising manager and division sales
manager and met with his usual success in these offices until 191 1. In that
year the company with which he was identified merged with the Deere Company
and Mr. Clausen was appointed to the position of factory manager. He en-
tered immediately upon his duties and in the one year of his activity has met
with a gratifying degree of success. By efficiency in the conduct of his office
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
279
and by business discrimination of a high order he has made his work effective
and has been an individual force in the remarkable growth of the concern.
On September 19, 1900, Mr. Clausen was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor
Bliss, who was born in Ionia, Michigan, April 4, 1877, and who is a daughter
of Adelbert M. and Margaret O. (Beattie) Bliss. The father was engaged in
the drug business and came to Wisconsin about 1885, settling near Richland
Center, where he followed the same occupation until 1895. In that year he
went to Montana, where he is now operating a ranch. He and his wife were
the parents of two children: Eleanor, the wife of our subject; and Adelbert,
who lives in Wisconsin. To Mr. and Mrs. Clausen have been born three
children: Margaret Nicolena, born June 19, 1903; Catherine Martha, born
July 4, 1905; and Elna Mary, born September 15, 1909.
Mr. Clausen is a democrat in his political beliefs and is president of the
school board of Horicon. He is interested in education and during his term
of office has done able and important work. He served as city attorney for
some time, is now a member of the city council and also acts as chairman of
the board of public works. He is a man of varied interests and has always
kept well informed upon local questions. He is an eager promoter of any
movement looking toward the further development and progress of his com-
munity and his influence is always ready in a worthy cause. Although his
connection with the Van Brunt Company has been his most important identi-
fication, he is also serving as second vice president of the Horicon State Bank,
and gives much of his time to his fraternal affiliations. He is a prominent
Mason and is now senior warden of the lodge and past high priest of the chap-
ter. He also holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
is well known in the affairs of that organization. His standards are high and
he has never deviated from them in the course of his business career. As fac-
tory manager he has found a field of activity entirely suited to his ambitions
and talents. He understands factory requirements and has the faculty of ob-
taining the cooperation of employes in a positive way. The positions which he
has held during the course of his identification with the Van Brunt Company
have been important and in some cases confidential and it is to his credit and
honor that he has enjoyed the trust and confidence of his employers and of
his business associates.
ALBERT YOUNG.
Albert Young, who passed away at Beaver Dam on the 16th of November,
1894, spent his entire life in Dodge county and was successfully identified with
general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. His birth
occurred in Burnett, Wisconsin, on the 16th of November, 1847.. He acquired
his education in the public schools of Burnett and, because of the death of his
father, early began providing for the support of his mother and the other chil-
dren of the family, proving a devoted son to his widowed mother. He re-
mained on the home farm at Burnett until thirty years of age, when he was
married and took up his abode on a farm at Fox Lake. At the end of four
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
years, however, he returned to Burnett, where he purchased one hundred and
thirty acres of land, cultivating the same until 1888, when he came to Beaver
Dam. Here he spent the remainder of his life.
On the 26th of December, 1877, Mr. Young was united in marriage to Miss
Sophia D. Weigart, who was born in April, 1861, her parents being John and
Eliza (Quamnan) Weigart. Her father is still living in his eighty-sixth year,
while her mother was called to her final rest when seventy-seven years of age.
Mr. and Mrs. Young had three children, as follows: Lillian, who is the wife
of Ernest Schultz ; Edwin G., who is a resident of Greeley, Colorado ; and Car-
rie M., who died at the age of twenty-two years.
Mr. Young gave his political allegiance to the republican party, while fra-
ternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In his
passing the community lost one of its substantial and esteemed citizens. His
widow survives and makes her home in Beaver Dam, where she has an exten-
sive circle of friends.
George W. Kuhaupt is proprietor of a cement block factory in Horicon, a
fully equipped manufacturing plant and one of the important industrial insti-
tutions of the village. His able management of the affairs of this large enter-
prise and his position as its head give him a place among representative busi-
ness men and rank him as an individual force in industrial expansion. He was
born in Ehringen, Kreis Wolfhagen, Hesse-Nassau, Germany, April 9, 1846,
a son of John and Marie (Ise) Kuhaupt, natives of that place. The father was
born in 1816 and the mother on November 28, of the same year. The great-
grandfather of our subject was a member of the Hessian forces, who aided the
British in the American Revolution and was eight years under the direction of
the English government. John Kuhaupt, the father of our subject, was a tailor
in his native country and followed that line of occupation until his death, which
occurred in the year 1852. In 1867 his wife came with part of her family to
America, locating near Schleisingerville, Wisconsin, where she resided until
1879 and then moved to Addison, where she died in the fall of 1905, when she
was eighty-nine years of age.
George W. Kuhaupt was educated in the public schools of Germany and
was twenty years of age when he came to America, one year in advance of his
mother. For six years he worked at the mason's trade, which he had learned
in Germany, in Schleisingerville and then followed the same occupation for
four years in Germantown. Returning to Schleisingerville. he worked at his
trade until 1879, moving from there to Addison township, Washington county,
where in partnership with his brother he conducted a feed store and sawmill
until 1906, when he came to Horicon and purchased twenty acres of land within
the city limits, upon which he erected his cement block factory, which he has
operated since that time. He manufactures all kinds of cement products, in-
cluding burial vaults and porch pillars and has an excellent modern plant fully
GEORGE WILLIAM KUHAUPT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
281
equipped with the most up-to-date appliances. The work produced in this
factory is artistic and valuable and brings high prices in the Wisconsin markets,
where it has a ready sale.
In November, 1870, Mr. Kuhaupt was united in marriage to Miss Sophia
Ise, who was born in Schleisingerville on the 22d of October, 1847, * daughter
of William and Catherine (Komalein) Ise, natives of Germany, who came to
America in 1847, settling near Schleisingerville on a farm upon which both
died. The mother passed away in 1902, when she was eighty-one years of age
and the father's death occurred in 1903, in the ninety-third year of his- age.
Mr. and Mrs. Kuhaupt have four children: George, who is now station agent at
Antioch, Illinois; William, who resides with his parents; Martha, who is the
wife of Edward Meier, in the employ of the Miller Brewing Company at Mil-
waukee; and Anna, who married Otto Webber, of Horicon.
Mr. Kuhaupt gives his political allegiance to the republican party. He is
well known in the affairs of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, holding
membership in Horicon Lodge, No. 87. He has that claim to prominence in
business circles of the city which lies in the building up of a modern, thor-
oughly equipped and rapidly expanding commercial enterprise.
JOHN M. ROHDE.
John M. Rohde, engaged in general agricultural pursuits, is owner of a
tract of land of eighty acres on section 16, Oak Grove township, comprising one
of the best improved farms in the township. His birth occurred in Mecklen-
burg-Schwerin, Germany, on the 28th of October, 1849, his parents being John
and Dorothy (Pultz) Rohde, who were likewise natives of that place. The
father served as a soldier in the regular army in Germany. About 1872 he
emigrated to the United States with his family, settling near Hartford, Wash-
ington county, Wisconsin, where he made his home for about five years and
worked for others. Subsequently he spent five years on a rented farm near
Juneau and then took up his abode on the farm of his son, John, near Oak Grove,
spending the remainder of his life among his children. He passed away about
1896, while his wife was called to her final rest about 1900.
John M. Rohde obtained his education in the schools of the fatherland
and after putting aside his text-books worked in the employ of others. He ac-
companied his parents on their emigration to the new world when a young man
of twenty-three years and in this state spent about two years as a farm hand.
Subsequently he operated a rented farm for about ten years and on the expira-*
tion of that period purchased a tract of eighty acres adjoining the city limits of
Juneau, the further cultivation and improvement of which has claimed his at-
tention to the present time. The property is well improved in every particular,
the buildings thereon being modern and up-to-date and furnishing ample shelter
for grain and stock. In the operation of this farm Mr. Rohde has won a grati-
fying measure of success, his well tilled fields yielding golden harvests as a
reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On the 5th of November, 1880, Mr. Rohde was united in marriage to Miss
Bertha Gerfen, who was born in the province of Pommern, Germany, on the
1st of January, 1859, her parents being William and Johanna (Hayes) Ger-
fen, likewise natives of that province. The father's birth occurred on the 10th
of February, 1839, while the mother's natal' day was January 12, 1840. About
1865 they crossed the Atlantic to the United States, settling near Hustisford,
this county. A short time later they took up their abode on a rented farm near
Juneau and afterward purchased a tract of land near Oak Grove. William
Gerfen was living retired at Watertown at the time of his demise, which oc-
curred in 1910. His wife had passed away in Juneau about 1898. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Rohde have been born ten children, as follows: Lydia, born Novem-
ber 5, 1885, who is the wife of Henry Lyndemeyer, a farmer of Clyman town-
ship; Clara, whose birth occurred on the 21st of March, 1887, and who passed
away on the 2d of May, 1892; William, whose natal day was March 10, 1889;
Herbert, who was born on the 5th of May, 1890, and who is a mechanic by
trade; Albert, born May 28, 1892; Esther, whose birth occurred on the 14th
of July, 1894; Edwin, born July 13, 1896; Jessie, born September 19, 1898;
Reuben, born June 19, 1900; and Benjamin, born December 9, 1902. The last
eight named are still under the parental roof.
In politics Mr. Rohde is a stanch republican but his aspirations have not
been in the line of office holding. His religious faith is indicated by his mem-
bership in the Evangelical church at Juneau. Coming to the new world in
early manhood, he wisely utilized the opportunities offered and has steadily
worked his way upward to a position among the prosperous agriculturists
and respected citizens of his home community.
The legal circles of <Mayville find a worthy representative in the person
of E. H. Naber, whose birth here occurred on the 4th of August, 1877. He is
a son of the late Gerhard and Anna (Ruedebusch) Naber, natives of Germany.
The father emigrated to the United States in the early '50s, locating just out-
side the city limits. There he pursued the career of an agriculturist until a
few years prior to his death, which occurred in 1907, at the venerable age of
seventy-seven years. He was survived by the mother, who passed away in
1909. They were married in America and to them were born four children, of
whom our subject is the youngest.
Reared at home E. H. Naber was educated in the public schools of May-
ville. Upon his graduation from the high school, he taught in the district schools
of Dodge county for three years. Having resolved to become an attorney he
went to Milwaukee and entered the office of McElroy & Eschwciler, where he
pursued his professional studies. He subsequently engaged in court reporting
in that city for three years, and at the expiration of that period, in 1904. re-
turned to Mayville, purchasing the law practice of Frank Lawrence. Three
years later he formed a partnership with the late F. M. Lawrence, with whom
E. H. NABER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
283
he was associated in practice until the latter was elected to the office of county
judge. In 1910, he became a partner of G. C. Wheeler, with whom he is still
connected. Mr. Naber engages in a general practice, and as he is conscientious as
a counselor and painstaking and cautious in the preparation of his cases, has
acquired a reputation in the community, through his simple and practical man-
ner of solving legal problems, which inspires confidence in his clients, who trust
him implicitly. He is building up a permanent and profitable clientage, and
has every reason to feel gratified with his professional success. For several
years he was city attorney, and in the discharge of his official duties met the
approval of his constituency by reason of his general efficiency, prompt action
and decisive measures.
Fraternally Mr. Naber has attained high rank in the Masonic order, hold-
ing membership in Vesper Lodge, No. 62, F. & A. M. ; Horicon Chapter, No.
24, R. A. M. ; Fond du Lac Commandery, No. 5, K. T. ; and Beaver Dam Coun-
cil, R. & S. M. He also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, being
a member of the Mayville Camp, while he maintains relations with his fellow
practitioners through the medium of his connection with the State Bar and
American Bar Associations. Mr. Naber is one of the popular and esteemed citi-
zens of the town, where he has many friends the majority of whom have known
him from childhood.
JOHN A. LOOMANS, D. D. S.
Dr. John A. Loomans is one of the well known and successful dentists of
Waupun, in which city occurred his birth on June 28, 1878. He is a son of
William and Mary (Landaal) Loomans, both of whom are natives of Alto,
Wisconsin, and celebrated their marriage in 1864. The father, in company with
W. E. Caldwell, was engaged in the lumber business. He is now deceased,
having passed away in 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Loomans are the parents of five
children, as follows: Alice, deceased; John A., of this review; George, a prac-
ticing dentist of Menasha, Wisconsin ; Charles, who has passed away ; and Lil-
lian, at home.
John A. Loomans was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools of Waupun. He later completed the required course in den-
tistry in the Chicago Dental College, from which institution he was graduated
with the degree of D. D. S. in the class of 1901. Immediately following his
graduation he engaged in the practice of his profession in Waupun, to' which
he has since devoted his attention, and is numbered among the up-to-date and
successful practitioners in his chosen field of work in the city. He is a mem-
ber of the Wisconsin Dental Society and also a member of the Fox River Val-
ley Dental Society.
Dr. Loomans was united in marriage on October 20, 1004, to Miss Eva
Gamble, who was born in Trenton, Wisconsin, June 30, 1877, and is a daugh-
ter of William and Sarah (McLyman) Gamble, who were natives of New York
and settled in Wisconsin fifty years ago. Dr. and Mrs. Loomans are the par-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ents of two children: Sarah Lillian, who was born June 10, 1908; and Jessie
L., who was born November at, 1910. Dr. Loomans is affiliated with the re-
publican party and he and his wife are members of the Congregational church.
He has met with gratifying success in the practice of his profession in the city
of his birth and is a man who readily gives his assistance to the advancement
of every laudable public measure intended to improve the conditions of the
people in his county and state.
FRANK J. McCALL.
Frank J. McCall is one of the prominent and successful business men of-
Richwood, where he conducts a general store and saloon, and he is also ex-
tensively interested in farm property in Shields township. He is a son of one
of the earliest Wisconsin pioneers and was born upon the Stone Wall grain farm,
which he now owns, December 10, 1865. His father, Edward McCall, was
a native of Ireland and grew to maturity in that country. When he came to
America he settled first in New York state and there resided for a number of
years. Later, however, he moved west and settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin,
in the early period of its development. He made the first journey into the state
alone and after observing the conditions entered a claim to forty acres of land.
Returning to New York, he brought his wife and family and with them set-
tled upon this tract which was then covered with a dense growth of timber.
He cleared a small space and upon it erected a log cabin, in which he resided
while he carried on the work of further development and cultivation. As his
financial resources grew he added to his holdings and owned at one time two
hundred acres, upon which he made substantial improvements, building a fine
residence, good barns, granaries and other outbuildings. He gradually became
prosperous and successful and was recognized as one of the most able and rep-
representative agriculturists in Dodge county at the time of his death, which
occurred in June, 1902, at the advanced age of ninety-seven. He married, in
New York. Miss Anna Kelly, also a native of Ireland. Her death occurred in
1896, some years previous to that of her husband.
Frank J. McCall is the youngest of a family of nine children, eight of whom
are still living. He was reared upon the homestead and received his educa-
tion in the public schools. When not engaged with his books he aided in the
farm work and thus at an ealy age gained experience in agricultural details and
methods. After his father's death he inherited the homestead and successfully
carried' forward the work of development and cultivation for a number of
years. His progressive and practical methods won him rapid prosperity and he
became known as one of the leading farmers in the district. In 1904 he rented
his farm out and removed to Richwood, where he purchased a business house
and saloon. Later he added a dry-goods department and a stock of groceries
and has since become prosperous and successful as a general merchant. His
patronage has steadily grown, for his enterprise is capably conducted and his
stock kept complete and up-to-date. His straightforward business methods
are well known and have had a direct influence upon his prosperity. Mr. McCall
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
is also active as auctioneer throughout this section of the county and his ser-
vices in that line are in great demand, as his work is effective and obtains results.
In Shields township, November 23, 1892, Mr. McCall was united in mar-
riage to Miss Mary McCaig, a sister of H. J. McCaig, of whom further mention
is made elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. McCall have eight children,
George W., Francis J., Edward A., Loretta Ann, Grace M., Margaret F., Isa-
bella Lucile and Leo. M. The family are devout adherents of the Roman
Catholic religion and are regular attendants at St. Joseph's church in Richwood.
Mr. McCall gives his allegiance to the democratic party and has always
taken an active and prominent part in public affairs. While still upon his farm
he was elected a member of the township board and served for four years as
chairman of the board. At the end of that time he resigned He has since done
active and effective work as supervisor and has been a delegate to many county
and state conventions. At the present time he is justice of the peace in Shields
township and is in the eighth consecutive year of his service. He brings to the
discharge of his official duties the same energy, conscientiousness and enter-
prise which have made his business career successful and his various activities
have combined to make him one of the best known and most representative men
in Dodge county.
CARL PAUTSCH.
Carl Pautsch, a retired agriculturist residing on section 34, Chester town-
ship, came to this county more than a half century ago and was long and actively
identified with farming interests here. His birth occurred in Zettig, district of
Wolkov, Pommern, Prussia, on the 27th of June, 1831, his parents being Gott-
lieb and Fredericka (Wendt) Pautsch, the latter likewise a native of Pommern.
The male representatives of the family were shepherds in Germany. Gottlieb
Pautsch, who was born in 1791, passed away in the year 1874. In 1856 he
crossed the Atlantic to the United States, coming direct to Mayville, Dodge
county, Wisconsin, and here followed farming throughout the remainder of
his life. Unto him and his wife were born ten children, six of whom died in
early life. The others were as follows: August, who passed away in Trenton
township, Dodge county ; Carl, of this review ; Fred, who is a resident of Good
Thunder, Minnesota; and Gustave, deceased, who participated in the Civil
war as a member of the Fifty-first Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry.
Carl Pautsch was a soldier in the Prussian army for three years and was
still in the service when in 1856 his father and three brothers emigrated to
America. In 1857 he, too, crossed the Atlantic to the new world and, in asso-
ciation with his father and brother, August, purchased fifty acres of land in
this county for eight hundred dollars. The sixteen members of the Pautsch
family here then took up their abode in a log house which stood upon the place,
the dimensions of which were sixteen by twenty feet. Our subject and his
brothers were employed by the month at a wage of fifty cents per day and also
cleared their own land. In i860 they erected a gravel house and subsequently
built a residence on an eighty-acre tract which they had purchased in 1861.
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286
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
after disposing of the original farm of fifty acres. In 1863 they divided the
farm of eighty acres between themselves, and three years later Carl Pautsch
purchased a tract of twenty acres adjoining his place. In 1873 he disposed
of his farm of sixty acres, purchasing and locating upon a tract of one hundred
and sixty acres in Chester township, while two years later he bought an ad-
joining place of eighty acres across the road. He erected all the necessary
buildings on the property and continued to operate the same until 1903, when he
put aside the active work of the fields. In addition to this he also purchased
land for his sons or gave them the necessary capital with which to buy farms.
The home place is now in possession of his son, Edward. The prosperity which
he enjoys has come as the merited reward of a life of well directed labor and
his record may well serve to illustrate the power of perseverance and industry
in the attainment of success.
On the 26th of January, 1857, in Germany, Mr. Pautsch was united in mar-
riage to Miss Johanna F. Zuhlsdorf, who was born on the 1st of October, 1836,
and passed away on the 10th of November, 1910. Her father, Conrad Zuhls-
dorf, was a native of Pommern, Germany, and became a farmer and land-
owner of that country, in which he spent his entire life. He had six chil-
dren, two of whom came to America, namely : Mrs. Johanna Pautsch ; and
Sophia, the wife of William Wrucke, of Good Thunder, Minnesota. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Pautsch were born twelve children, as follows: Emilie, the widow of
William Witte, of Trenton township, Dodge county; Johanna, who is the wife
of Fred Witte and lives in Chester township; William F., a resident of Wau-
pun, Wisconsin; Mary, who is the widow of Herman Schliefert and resides in
Manley, Nebraska; August C, living in Manley, Nebraska; Louis C, who
makes his home in Juneau, this county; Wilhelmina, who died at the age of
eleven years; Ida M., the wife of Herman Detlaff, of Glenburn, North Da-
kota ; Herman A., of Chester township ; Martha, the wife of William Rehwin-
kel, of Louisville, Nebraska; Edward F., of Chester township; and Anton E.,
who also makes his home in Chester township. The parents celebrated their
golden wedding in 1907 and all of their children were with them on that occa-
sion.
In politics Mr. Pautsch is a democrat and for thirteen years held the office
of assessor in his township. He acts as steward in Immanuel's Lutheran church
at Burnett and takes a deep and helpful interest in church work. He has
passed the eighty-first milestone on this early pilgrimage and is accorded the
high regard in public opinion that should ever be given one of advanced years
whose life has been worthily spent.
A native of Dodge county and the son of one of its most prominent pioneers
and at the present time active and successful in the development of one hundred
acres of land on section 2, Shields township, is Joseph J. Plasil, who was born
in Watertown, May 3, 1865. His father, Joseph Flasil, was a native of Bohe-
mia and grew to maturity in that country. Influenced by the hope of a bet-
JOSEPH J. PLASIL.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
•287
ter fortune in America, he crossed the Atlantic in 1861 and landed in Maryland,
where for some time during the Civil war he engaged in teaming in the gov-
ernment service. In 1863, however, he" left Maryland and journeyed westward
to Wisconsin, locating in Watertown, where he worked at carpentering, which
he had learned in Bohemia, and at any other work which would add to his in-
come. Being thrifty, ambitious and energetic he saved out of his earnings
enough money to buy forty acres of land and this now constitutes a part of the
family homestead. When it came into Mr. Plasil's possession it was a tract of
uncultivated timber land and not an acre had been under the plow. With char-
acteristic energy he cleared the trees from a small space and with the lumber cut
down built a log house in which he made his home. Acre by acre he extended
the work of development and finally had his entire farm cleared and improved.
Gradually he bought more land and finally owned two hundred and ten acres.
Upon this property he erected a fine modern residence to replace his log cabin,
built a good barn and other substantial outbuildings and made general improve-
ments about the place. He planted a number of acres in orchard and carried
on general farming and stock-raising with great success until his death, in 1895,
when he was seventy-three years of age. His widow, who was in her maiden-
hood Miss Barbara Kutchers, survives him and has reached the age of seventy-
six. She makes her home with her son, Frank F. Plasil, a sketch of whom
appears elsewhere in this work.
Joseph J. Plasil grew up on his father's farm and when He was little more
than a child assisted in the hard work of clearing the timber and grubbing up
stumps. He remained upon the homestead until after his father's death and
carried forward the work of development. After his marriage, which occurred
in 1902, he settled on his present farm, which constitutes one hundred acres
of fertile and productive land. At this time very little of the property was im-
proved and the only building upon it was a dilapidated house. Mr. Plasil,
however, erected a substantial, two-story modern dwelling and began to im-
prove and cultivate the soil. At the present time most of the land is cleared
and under cultivation and the excellent condition of the farm shows the owner's
careful supervision. He has built a fine barn with a good basement, has erected
a silo and made other general improvements. He gives his attention to gen-
eral farming and specializes in dairying, keeping a fine herd of cows for this
purpose. An important branch of his activities is stock-raising, in which he
is extensively engaged, breeding and fattening for the market fine grades of
Holstein cattle. As Mr. Plasil's farming operations have succeeded he has
extended his interests and become connected with the business life of his sec-
tion. He was one of the promoters of the Liberty Cheese & Butter Association
and is a stockholder and treasurer of the controlling company.
In IQ02 Mr. Plasil married in Shields township Miss Anna Dobyschek, who
was born in Bohemia and who came with her parents to Wisconsin when she
was four years of age. She was reared and educated in Dodge county and re-
mained at home until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Plasil have four children,
Agnes, Paul, Barbara and John. The family are devout adherents of the Catho-
lic religion and attend St. Joseph's church in Richwood.
Mr. Plasil's farming has been practical and productive of good results. He
stands steadily for progress in standards and improvement in methods and has
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
upon his property all equipment and accessories necessary to the conduct of
a modern farm. By well directed and persevering work he has attained suc-
cess which has not only made him prosperous but also constitutes an element
in the general agricultural development of this section.
Delmont Frank Fletcher, an enterprising and progressive agriculturist of
Chester township, is busily engaged in the operation of a farm of one hundred
and forty-six acres. His birth occurred in Hustisford, Dodge county, on the 22d
of June, 1880, his parents being Charles Nelson and Abby Ann (Ryder)
Fletcher. The father was born in this county on the 4th of March, 185 1, while
the mother's birth occurred at Hustisford, Wisconsin, in 1857. The maternal
grandparents of our subject, Frank and Mary (Van Blarkin) Ryder, became
early settlers of Dodge county, and the former was engaged in business as a
merchant of Hustisford for some time. Daniel Fletcher, the paternal grand-
father, was a native of Canada who came to the United States and settled in
New York, securing employment in a woolen factory. Subsequently he came
to Dodge count/, Wisconsin, settling near Hustisford, where he entered land
from the government and spent the remainder of his life. His prominence in
public affairs is indicated in the fact that at one time he served as assemblyman
from his district.
Charles N. Fletcher, the father of Delmont F. Fletcher, was born and reared
on his father's farm in this county. On attaining his majority he purchased
land of his own near Hustisford, cultivating the same for a period of eighteen
or twenty years. At the end of that time he sold the property and took up his
abode on the farm of one hundred and forty-six acres which is now in posses-
sion of his widow, continuing to reside thereon until called to his final rest in
August, 1905. He had spent his entire life within the borders of Dodge county
and in his passing the community lost one of its substantial agriculturists and
respected citizens. It was at Hustisford that he wedded Miss Abby Ann Ryder,
who is still living and makes her home in Waupun. She has also remained in
this county from her birth to the present time and enjoys an extensive and favor-
able acquaintance here. Mr. and Mrs. Charles N. Fletcher were the parents
of three sons and a daughter, as follows: Grace, who is the wife of W. S.
Blunt, a practicing physician of Waupun; Harry Nelson and Robert C, who are
also residents of Waupun; and Delmont Frank, of this review.
The last named obtained his education in the schools of Hustisford and
Waupun, completing his studies at the latter place. After putting aside his
text-books he turned his attention to the work of the home farm and from
that time to the present has devoted his energies to its operation, now renting
the property from his mother. His fields have been brought to a high state of
productivity, and everything about his homestead is suggestive of thrift and
a careful regard for details that is indicative of capable and intelligent
management.
DELMONT FRANK FLETCHER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
289
Delmont F. Fletcher specializes in raising cabbage and was one of the first
growers of this vegetable in this section. He has recently erected a cabbage
store house of six hundred tons capacity in Waupun, in partnership with his
brothers, which is the first of its kind in this district.
In June, 1907, Mr. Fletcher was united in marriage to Miss Martha Ann
Tucker, a daughter of Moses and Anna Tucker, who were natives of Ohio and
came to Wisconsin in the early days. The father was a mason by trade. After
the Civil war, in which he had participated, his health failed and he was em-
ployed by the state in the prison at Waupun. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher have one
child, Charles Plympton, whose birth occurred in November, 1909.
Mr. Fletcher is republican in his political views but not blindly partisan, con-
sidering the fitness of a candidate as of more importance than his party affilia-
tion. His wife is a devoted and consistent member of the Episcopal church.
His life has been upright and honorable in all of its relations and he is widely
recognized as a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family of this
county.
OTTO F. SCHWEFEL.
Well over fifty years ago a little band of seven Germans left Milwaukee
and came on foot to Lebanon township where each located a claim and upon
it built a small log cabin. Returning to Milwaukee they joined their families
and in the spring of the following year came with them overland, driving ox
teams. They brought with them their household goods, provisions, and a few
primitive farm implements and established in Lebanon township a German
community which has grown to be one of the finest and most prosperous in the
state. They were the first white settlers in the section and had only Indians
for neighbors with whom they lived on friendly terms for many years.
Gradually they became successful — fine examples of the best types of Wiscon-
sin pioneers. The grandson of one of this little band, Otto F. Schwefel, is
living upon one hundred and fifteen acres on section 20, Lebanon township
and is regarded as one of the representative farmers of his section. He was
born in the district in which he now resides, July 28, 1876, a son of William
and Wilhelmina (Heilman) Schwefel, the former a native of Germany and
the latter of Wisconsin. The father came to America when he was seven years
of age, making the journey with his parents in 1843. When the grandfather of
our subject came to Wisconsin William Schwefel accompanied him and grew
to manhood in this section. Eventually he inherited the homestead and upon
this carried on general agricultural pursuits until his death. He was one of the
early settlers in Lebanon township and well known in democratic politics in
which he took an active part, serving in various county and township offices.
He was among the founders of the first church built in this section by the adher-
ents of the Evangelical Lutheran religion. He died August 19, 1906, and the
mother of our subject passed away June 18, 1878. Both are buried in I^banon
cemetery.
William Schwefel was twice married and the subject of this sketch is the
youngest in a family of six children born to his first union. He received his
education in the district and parochial schools and for one year attended the
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290
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
normal school at Whitewater. He remained with his father upon the farm
until 1903 when he moved to his present property, comprising one hundred and
fifteen acres of productive land. Here he does general farming and stock-
raising, breeding graded Holstein cattle and pure-blooded Chester White hogs.
He also specializes in the breeding and raising of Belgium hares and is actively
interested in this branch of his activities. He operates a model sanitary dairy,
milking fifteen cows daily and selling his product to the neighboring cheese fac-
tory. Eighty acres of his land are under cultivation and the rest is in marsh
and wood land. The principal products of his farm are hay and grain, all of
which he feeds to his stock. In 1903 he erected a modern barn, ninety feet
by thirty-eight feet, with cement floors throughout and equipped with wooden
stanchions. Mr. Schwefel resides in a pleasant brick residence upon his prop-
erty and delights in being surrounded by his many friends. He is one of the
best known and most intelligently active men of his section and is interested
in various important local enterprises. He has been secretary for the past six
years of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Lebanon township and
is a stockholder in the new Farmers and Citizens State Bank of Watcrtown.
In 1903 Otto F. Schwefel married Miss Paulina Braunschweik, a daughter of
Ludwig and Caroline (Titez) Braunschweik. Her grandparents came to Leb-
anon township from Germany in 1845, anQ " representatives of the family have
been living here since that time. Mrs. Schwefel is the seventh in a family of
eleven children and was born September 12, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Schwefel have
five children : Helen, who died when she was six years of age ; Ernst ; Elda ;
Gustave; and Alice.
Otto Schwefel is active and prominent in democratic politics and is serving
his sixth year as justice of the peace. For three years he did able and con-
stanchions. Mr. Schwefel resides in a pleasant brick residence upon his prop-
years, bringing to his public life the same intelligent discrimination, integrity,
and unquestioned honor, which have made his business life useful and pros-
perous.
WALTER E. WARREN.
When Walter E. Warren died in Fox Lake, May 2, 1905, agricultural interests
of Dodge county and the business interests of the city lost a conspicuously
worthy representative. He was a native son of Trenton township and all his
work and energies were steadily directed toward the growth and advancement
of his section, so that he was justly entitled to the place which he held among
the men who influence general activity. He was born March 8, 1859, and was
a son of George and Mary E. (West) Warren, natives of New York state, who
came to Wisconsin in 1848 and settled in Trenton, Dodge county, where the
father died in 1900. His wife passed away in Fox Lake in 1904.
Waltei E. Warren was the fourth in a family of five children. He received
his education in the district schools of Trenton and Fox Lake townships and
in the Downer College at Fox Lake. After he left this institution he went to
Wayland University, of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, thus completing an excellent
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W. E. WARREN
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
education. For some years afterward he remained with his parents on their
farm, which was known as the Laurel Hill stock farm, and became a partner
with his father in the operation of this enterprise. All of his time was given
to the management of the farm until 1900, when he moved to Fox Lake and
became connected with the business life of the town. His ability and force of
character soon drew him into important relations with large enterprises, among
which may be mentioned the Warren & Pettegrew Gas Company, an enterprise
which was organized in 1903 and with which Mr. Warren was closely identified
until his death in 1905. He owned also a great deal of valuable city property,
for his investments had always been judicious, and he was besides the proprietor
of fine tracts of farm land in northern Wisconsin.
On the 1 8th of October, 1886, Mr. Warren married Miss Matie Gillette, a
daughter of Robert Arthur and Sarah (Turner) Gillette, the former a native
of Ohio and the latter of Maine. They were early settlers in Tomah and made
that section their home for a number of years. Mrs. Gillette died there but her
husband passed away in Fox Lake. Mrs. Warren is the second in a family of
five children and was born October 31, 1864. She and her husband became the
parents of two daughters. Inez was born in 1888 and received her education
in the public and district schools of Trenton and Fox Lake townships. She is
a graduate of Way land Academy of Beaver Dam and she later attended the
University of Wisconsin at Madison for two years. Mary Edith was born in
i88t<. She attended the district and public schools of Trenton and Fox Lake
townships and was graduated from the Grand Prairie Seminary at Onarga,
Illinois, in 1910. The family give their allegiance to the First Baptist church
of Fox Lake, which Mr. Warren attended during his life.
Mr. Warren voted the prohibition ticket and was interested in the spread and
growth of the prohibition movement. He was prominent in the Masonic order,
his only fraternal affiliation. His business interests included his connection with
the George Warren Company Bank, of Warrens, Wisconsin, of which he was a
stockholder and vice president, and some of his time was given to the manage-
ment of this enterprise and his extensive property holdings. He died at the
age of forty-six, cut off in the prime of his career, but his prosperity had
already reached gratifying proportions. It is hard to estimate the value of the
work he would have done had he had time to complete it, but some idea of the
high place which he occupied in the respect and esteem of his associates and
friends may be gained from the expressions of widespread regret which attended
his death and which was a genuine tribute of sorrow at the close of a worthy life.
FRANK S. BAUER.
Frank S. Bauer, a well known citizen and enterprising merchant of Lcroy,
is numbered among the worthy native sons of Dodge county who have remained
within its borders and have here won success and prosperity. His birth oc-
curred in Lcroy township on the 9th of July, 1856, his parents being Frank and
Katharine (Bruner) Bauer, natives of Bayern, Germany. The father was born
on the 10th of August, 1826, while the mother's natal day was October 30,
voi n— it
294
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1831. They were representatives of old Bayern families, whose male members
followed farming there. Frank Bauer emigrated to the United States in 1851,
remaining in the state of New York for two years and working on a farm.
He landed on American soil with a cash capital of two dollars and a half and
secured employment at a wage of five dollars per month. In 1853 he came to
Leroy township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, and took up a tract of forty acres
of government land, clearing the timber therefrom and improving the property
generally. Disposing of the place, he purchased a farm of one hundred and
eight acres and continued its operation until 1884, when he retired to the village
of Leroy, where he passed away in 1898, after a residence of forty-five years
in this county. The success which crowned his efforts came as the direct re-
ward of his industry and perseverance, for he came to the new world empty-
handed and worked his way upward unaided. It was in 1853 that he wedded
Katharine Bruner, a daughter of Michael Bruner, who was a native of Bayern,
Germany, and followed the profession of teaching in that country. He emi-
grated to the United States in 1851 and here also taught school and engaged
in farming. He was the father of two children : Mrs. Katharine Bauer, whose
demise occurred on the 2d of October, 1903 ; and Maria, who is the widow of
Joseph Greiner and lives in Mayville. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bauer had six
children, as follows: Katharine, the wife of Joseph Wittman, of Watkins,
Minnesota; Frank S., of this review; Joseph, who makes his home in Leroy
township; Mary, the wife of Martin Wittman, of Byron, Wisconsin; and
Amelia and John, who died in infancy.
Frank S. Bauer, whose name introduces this review, attended the parochial
and district schools in the acquirement of an education and after putting aside
his text-books assisted his father in the operation of the home farm. In 1879,
when a young man of twenty-three years, he started out in the business world
on his own account, buying grain at Knowles, Wisconsin, where he erected an
elevator and built the first house. He also served as the first postmaster of
that town. Three years later he was made agent for the Chicago, Milwaukee
& St. Paul Railroad Company at that point, capably discharging the duties de-
volving upon him in that connection for a period of eighteen years. He like-
wise opened and conducted a general merchandise store at Knowles. In 1900
he abandoned station work and opened up a stone quarry, operating the same
for four years and then selling it to the Nast Brothers. In the meantime, in
1901, he removed his stock of general merchandise to Leroy, where he erected
a store building and residence and has since remained in business. He carries
a large and well selected line of goods at reasonable prices and a liberal patron-
age is accorded him in recognition of his straightforward and reliable business
dealings. In the conduct of the store he is ably assisted by his wife, who is a
woman of excellent business ability and a good manager, and who, in connec-
tion with the store, conducts a millinery establishment.
It was on the 14th of January, 1879, that Mr. Bauer was united in marriage
to Miss Anna C. Schmid, who was born on the 1st of November, 1859, her
parents being George and Maria F. (Greiner) Schmid, natives of Regensburg,
Bayern, Germany. George Schmid came of a family of brewers. In 1853 he
crossed the Atlantic to the United States, locating first in Milwaukee, Wiscon-
sin, where he secured employment in a brewery. In i8<;4 he came to Lerov.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
295
erected a brewery and conducted the same until the time of his retirement in
1892. His demise occurred in 1903. He was married at Milwaukee in 1854
and became the father of ten children, namely : George, who died at Leroy in
1902 ; Mary, the wife of Peter Buelsbach, of Chicago ; Mrs. Anna Bauer ; Eliza-
beth, who gave her hand in marriage to J. N. Schraufnagel, of Leroy town-
ship ; Barbara, who passed away at the age of fourteen years ; Joseph, who died
at Chicago in 1904; Matilda, the wife of John Strasser, of Leroy; Caroline, the
wife of Anton Hoffman, of Leroy; Alois, who is engaged in business as a mer-
chant at Lomira, Wisconsin; and Maximilian, a priest, who died in 1905. To
Mr. and Mrs. Bauer have been born eleven children, two of whom died in in-
fancy. The others are as follows : Frank, who died when four years of age ;
Edwin, a merchant of Milwaukee, who wedded Lucy Wild and has four chil-
dren; Dorothy, the wife of P. J. Zehren, of Split Rock, Wisconsin, by whom
she has three children ; Frank J., who wedded Miss Ella Schingen and lives in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Lucy, the wife of Bernhard Mauel, of Split Rock,
Wisconsin ; and Leonora, Anna, Armand and George, all of whom are at home.
Mr. Bauer is a democrat in his political views and was honored by election
to the state assembly in 1905 and again in 1907, justifying the confidence of
his constituents during two terms of able service in that body. He belongs to
the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin and is a devout communicant of St. Andrew's
church, of which his wife and children are also members. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Bauer are widely known throughout the county in which they have spent their
entire lives, and their many excellent traits of heart and mind have gained for
them a wide circle of acquaintances and a host of warm friends.
LOUIS J. SIMON, M. D.
Dr. Louis J. Simon is giving his attention to the general practice of medicine
in Horicon and is ranked among the most progressive, able and practical phy-
sicians in the village. He is a native of Wisconsin, born in Fond du Lac county,
April 13, 1883, a son of Jacob and Mary (Schneider) Simon, both natives of
Prussia, Germany, where the father was born, January 15, 1840, and the mother,
December 8, 1842. Jacob Simon came to America with his parents when he
was only six years of age and settled with them in Fond du Lac county on a
farm upon which he grew to maturity. He eventually became an extensive land
owner in that section and carried on general agricultural pursuits. He has now
abandoned the active work of the fields but still resides upon a farm in Fond
du Lac county, making his home with his son. He has become prominent and
important in the public affairs of the section in which he resides and has held
various important township offices.
Dr. Simon is the twelfth in a family of fourteen children. He was educated
in the district schools of Fond du Lac county and in the high school of the city
of Fond du Lac. After completing his preliminary studies he entered the medi-
cal department of the University of Illinois, graduating with the degree of M. D.
in 1908. He came immediately to Horicon and opened an office in the city where
he has since gained prominence in his chosen field. He has a broad knowledge of
296
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the general principles which underly the science of medicine and is capable of
making this knowledge practically effective. He has been taught in a modern
age and has made use of the most modern methods and systems, broadening
his knowledge by constant reading. In consequence his practice has increased as
he has become better known and has attained gratifying proportions at the pres-
ent time.
On June 6, 191 1, Dr. Simon was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Schraven,
who was bom near Oak Grove, Lowell township, April 8, 1885, a daughter of
William and Anna (Heiling) Schraven, who reside near Lamartine in Fond
du Lac county, where the father is engaged in farming.
Dr. Simon gives a general allegiance to the democratic party and votes this
ticket on national questions although in local affairs he casts an independent
ballot. He and his wife are members of the Roman Catholic church. He gives
practically his entire attention to the general practice of medicine. Scientific
efficiency is the ground work of his success and has been the principal factor in
his undoubted success. Dr. Simon has the principal work of his life still before
him, but has begun in a way which promises well for the future.
For over twenty years Gustav Martin Lindert has been carrying on fanning
and dairying upon one hundred and forty acres of land which he owns near
Woodland. Progressive methods have made him prosperous and one of the
successful and representative men of this section and have gained for him a
high place in agricultural circles. Mr. Lindert was born in Hustisford township,
April 1, 1865, and is a son of Martin and Gusta (Rehse) Lindert, natives of
Germany. His father was born in the province of Brandenburg, October 10,
1823, and remained there until 1856, when he came with his wife and daughter
to America. He bought a farm in Hustisford township, Dodge county, and
operated and developed it with great success until his death. The mother of
our subject was born July 21, 1829.
Gustav M. Lindert attended the German schools of his native section and
after he laid aside his books worked for his father upon the home farm until
he was twenty-six years of age. At that time he purchased one hundred and
forty acres on sections 34, 22 and 27, Hubbard township, near Woodland, and
upon it he has since resided. This is a fine tract of land and all under cultivation
but twenty acres. The farm is equipped with the newest machinery to facilitate
the work of the fields and nothing is neglected which goes to made a model
agricultural enterprise. Upon it Mr. Lindert does general farming and gives
special attention to the conduct of his dairy, which is kept clean and sanitary,
his products commanding a ready sale and a high price on the market. Mr.
Lindert also gives much of his time to breeding and raising stock. At the pres-
ent time his herd consists of graded animals but he intends eventually to breed
only thoroughbreds. From time to time he has made substantial improvements
upon his property, converting two smaller barns into a large one, erecting grana-
GUSTAV MARTIN LINDERT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
297
ries and a silo, and in every way working to bring his farm into excellent
condition.
Mr. Lindert married in 1896, Miss Alice Wendorff, who was born Septem-
ber 24, 1877. She is a daughter of August Wendorff, a native of the province of
Pomerania, Germany, born August 24, 1846. He came to America before the
Civil war and enlisted for service in the Federal army in that conflict. His wife
was in her maidenhood Miss Mary Springborn, also a native of Germany, born
in December, 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Lindert have three children : Bernhard, whose
birth occurred on May 20, 1897; Martha, born April 9, 1899; ar, d Meta, born
May 26, 1902. The family are devout adherents of the Lutheran church.
Mr. Lindert is independent in his political views and casts his vote for the
man whom he considers most capable for the office without regard to party
affiliations. He is actively interested in community affairs but his attention is
mostly given to the operation of his farm, which he has developed and cultivates
along modern lines, gaining for himself a high place among the representative
men of his section.
JOHN P. CARROLL.
One of the most active, progressive and representative fanners of Dodge
county is John P. Carroll, a native son, who owns and operates the farm in
Shields township upon which he was born. He has one hundred and forty-
three acres on section 24, highly improved along systematic lines, and his work
in its development has been a distinct contribution to scientific agriculture.
Mr. Carroll was born December 26, 1854. His father, Michael Carroll, was a
native of Ireland and grew to manhood in that country. As a young man he
determined to seek his fortune in America and accordingly crossed the At-
lantic and settled in Vermont. From there he went to New York state and
worked at various occupations for a number of years, saving enough out of
his earnings to buy a team and wagon. With this he drove from New York
state to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, over many miles of wilderness, broken only oc-
casionally by a small village. He arrived at his destination in 1845 and for
three years he remained in Milwaukee and engaged in teaming. At the end
of that time he came to Dodge county and purchased eighty acres of land in
what is now Shields township and sixty-three acres adjoining in the township
of Emmet. When he located on this property in 1848 it was a tract of wild
timber land, upon which not a furrow had been turned. With characteristic
energy Mr. Carroll set himself to the task of clearing the land and developing
it into a model farm. In the first small space from which he cut down the
trees he built a log cabin and took up his residence in it while he carried for-
ward the work of improvement. As his financial resources grew he built the
necessary barns and outbuildings and some years later replaced his original
cabin by a fine modern residence. Little by little he became known as an able
and scientific farmer, whose progressive methods had brought him well de-
served success. He was one of the earliest pioneers in Dodge county and it
is said that his deed to this property was the first filed on the county records.
298
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
He died upon his farm in 1886 and his wife survived him for two years. In
their family were eight children, four of whom are living.
John P. Carroll was reared upon his father's farm and from his early child-
hood helped in the operation of the same. He received his education in the
public schools and in Sacred Heart College at Watertown, and when he had
completed it returned home and took full charge of the property. After his
father's death he inherited the homestead and has since given his entire time to
its development. He has made substantial improvements in the barns and has
erected new outbuildings and remodeled the house. In this he continued to
reside until January, 1912, when he moved into the fine modern residence
which was completed in that year on another section of the farm. It is a large
two-story dwelling, equipped with all conveniences and accessories. Since com-
ing into possession of his one hundred and forty-three acres Mr. Carroll re-
mained upon the farm continuously until 1902, in which year he rented the prop-
erty and moved to Watertown, where he engaged for two years in the agri-
cultural implement business. In 1904, however, he returned to his home and
again became active in the development of the farm, having sold his business
interests in Watertown.
Mr. Carroll married, in Richwood, November 24, 1896, Miss Elizabeth
Burke, who was born and reared in Shields township. To this union were born
five children, Arthur Raymond, John Warren, Charles Earl, Agnes Veronica
and Mary, who died at the age of six months. Politically Mr. Carroll has given
his allegiance to the democratic party since he cast his first vote and has been
active and prominent in local affairs for many years. When he was a young
man he served one term as assessor and since that time did able work as super-
visor, laboring earnestly to promote the general welfare of the section. In his
business affairs he displays excellent ability and his enterprise, careful control
and keen discernment are factors which have gained him a place in the front
ranks of progressive farmers.
OSCAR D. NABER.
Oscar D. Naber is conducting a general merchandise store in Mayville and
has gained prominence in business circles by reason of his able management and
his increasing success. As postmaster of the village and a factor in the af-
fairs of various important local enterprises, as well as president of the school
board, and a member of the Commercial Club, the prosperity which has come
to him has been well merited by diligence and industry, and entitles him to a
place among the representative men of the village. He is a native son of May-
ville, having been born there, January 15, 1870. His father Dietrich Naber,
was born in Oldenburg, Germany, and came to America in 1850, settling im-
mediately in Mayville, where for some time he clerked in a general store. He
saved his money and was soon able to purchase a store of his own which he
continued to conduct until his death which occurred in 1901, when he was
sixty-seven years of age. He was well known in the business circles of the
village as an honorable, upright, and straightforward man, who starting in a
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299
small way had gradually built up his business into a modern, up-to-date enter-
prise. He married Miss Anna Rucdcbush, who was born in Germany, and who
came to America in i860 with her father, who was among the early settlers in
Dodge county. The mother of our subject passed away in 1898.
Oscar D. Naber is the fourth in a family of eight children. He was edu-
cated in the district schools of his native section and is a graduate of the May-
ville high school. After completing his studies he was employed in his father's
store and has been connected with this enterprise since that time, first as clerk
and later as proprietor. For twenty-eight years he has given his entire time
and attention to its management keeping it modern and up-to-date in all its de-
partments, and conducting it along progressive lines until it is now one of the
finest stores in this section of the county. In August, 191 1, he was appointed
postmaster of Mayvilk and assumed charge in October of the same year, dis-
charging his duties ably and conscientiously.
On August 4, 1899, Mr. Naber was united in marriage to Miss Paula Paus-
tian, a daughter of Ferdinand and Sophia (Roll) Paustian. Her father was a
miller by trade and also an electrician and followed these two lines of occupa-
tion for many years. He is now living retired in Mayville. Mi. and Mrs.
Naber have four children: Alfred, Walter, Herbert, and Margaret
Politically Mr. Naber gives his allegiance to the republican party and al-
though he has never sought public office his interest in educational affairs led
him to accept the position of president of the school board, in which capacity
he has served for the last six years and has recently been elected for another
term. He is well known in fraternal circles being prominent in the Masonic
order, by his membership in the lodge at Mayville and in the chapter at Hori-
con. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, the German Turn
Verein and the Mayville Commercial Club. The practical standards by which
he directs his business life, his intelligent conduct of the affairs of his office
and his general influence upon local affairs have made him an important figure
in the community and are tangible proof of the usefulness and value of his life.
HENRY BERGEN.
Among the true builders and promoters of Dodge county may be numbered
the men who came to this section in pioneer times and who by hard work in
clearing the wild tracts of timber land transformed a wilderness into productive
farms. Henry Bergen is numbered among the men of this class for he came
to this district as a child in pioneer times and grew up amid conditions of de-
velopment. As a child he was aiding his father in clearing the timber, break-
ing the soil and making improvements upon the farm and he is living today
upon the property to which he came as a boy nearly sixty years ago. In his
mature career he has carried forward the work along modern lines of expan-
sion and has achieved a success which places him among the representative citi-
zens of Shields township. He has become identified with the more public life
of the section and for many years has been considered one of the most influen-
tial forces in democratic politics. He was born in Ontario, Canada, August 25,
300
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1848. His father, John J. Bergen, moved to the United States with his family
in 1853 and in the same year made a permanent settlement in Shields township.
Here he purchased a tract of land covered with a dense growth of timber. He
did not fear earnest and persevering work and broke the soil and made gen-
eral improvements upon the property, including the building of a crude log
cabin from the timber cut down. Later on he bought more land and continued
the work of development along modern lines, replacing his early dwelling by
a commodious and substantial house and building also a large basement barn
and other outbuildings, so that the farm was gradually made into a model
property. Upon this he reared his son Henry and daughter Mary and upon
it he died in 1910, at the age of ninety-two years, His wife passed away in Feb-
ruary of the same year.
Henry Bergen grew up on the home farm and after' his parents died took
full charge of its management and carried forward the work of improvement
for a number of years. He engaged in general farming and was extensively
interested in dairying and stock-raising, keeping fine herds of high-grade cat-
tle. For over sixty years he has made his home upon this property and al-
though he has the farm rented out, still continues to reside upon it. His sister
Mary has been his housekeeper and both are well known and widely popular
throughout Dodge county.
Politically Mr. Bergen is a stanch democrat and one of the prominent men
in public life in Shields township, for he has a record of twenty-three years of
consecutive service as town clerk and also did able and effective work as treas-
urer of the school board, bringing to the discharge of his official duties the
same energy, conscientiousness and unquestioned honesty which made his
business career successful. He and his sister have been residents of Dodge
county for well over half a century and are numbered among the very earliest
settlers in the section. They have witnessed the change of the county from a
vast, unbroken wilderness into one of the finest farming sections in Wiscon-
sin. They have seen railroad facilities established and developed, towns and
cities founded and built up, and well improved farms cultivated everywhere.
To a large extent Mr. Bergen's work has been identified with this progress and
change and by his able, straightforward and earnest work he has done his part
in creating one of the finest farming sections in America. His life has, there-
fore, been more than individually successful, it has been useful and valuable.
GUSTAV BESKE.
Gustav Beskc has for the past fourteen years been engaged in business as
a general merchant of Atwater and for the same length of time has also served
in the capacity of postmaster, being appointed to that position in 1898. His
birth occurred in Hubbard township, Dodge county, on the 24th of February,
1873, ms parents being Herman and Matilda (Kietser) Beske. William F.
Beske, the paternal grandfather, was a native of Pommern, Germany, and emi-
grated to the United States with his family about 1856. He came direct to Wis-
consin, locating first near Mayville and later in life removing to Chester town-
Digitized
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
301
ship. Unto him and his wife were born three children, as follows: Herman;
Amelia A., the wife of John Albrecht, of Mayville, Wisconsin; and Augusta,
the wife of F. W. Beske, of Burnett, Wisconsin.
Herman Beske, the father of Gustav Beske, was a lad of eight years when
he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States. After
attaining his majority he began farming on his own account, first in Hubbard
township, this county, and later in Lomira township. About 1894 he came to
Chester township, where he has since been successfully engaged in general agri-
cultural pursuits. The period of his residence in Dodge county covers more
than a half century and he has gained an extensive and favorable acquaintance
within its borders. He was married in 1872 and has three living children,
namely: Gustav, of this review; Edwin, who resides in Atwater, Wisconsin;
and Albert, at home.
In the acquirement of an education Gustav Beske attended the public schools
and also a German parochial school at Lomira. After putting aside his text-
books he assisted his father in the operation of the home farm until he secured
a position in the service of the Soo Line. In 1898 he came to Atwater and
opened a general merchandise store. In 1905 he was appointed agent of the
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company at Atwater and opened an
express office. As a merchant he has won success, carrying a large and at-
tractive line of goods and doing everything in his power to meet the demands
and wishes of his patrons. In 1898 he was appointed to the position of post-
master and has ably discharged the duties devolving upon him in that connec-
tion to the present time.
On the 15th of September, 1898, Mr. Beske was united in marriage to Miss
Cecelia Saeger, who was born in Burnett township, this county, on the 29th of
November, 1877, her parents being Gottlieb and Fredericka (Boos) Saeger.
Her father emigrated to this country from Pommern, Germany, at an early day,
locating in Herman township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he now resides
and follows farming. To Mr. and Mrs. Beske have been born two children,
Erwin and Alvin, who are both at home.
Mr. Beske is a republican and has served as township clerk of Chester
township. He and his family belong to the Lutheran church. The salient qual-
ities of his life have ever commended him to the confidence, good-will and
friendship of those with whom he comes in contact and he has always enjoyed
the warm regard of a host of friends. Both he and his wife have spent their
entire lives in Dodge county and are well entitled to a place among its repre-
sentative residents.
REINHOLD WEGNER.
General agricultural pursuits claim the time and energies of Reinhold Weg-
ner, who resides on section 20, Chester township, and owns two farms, com-
prising one hundred and fifty-two and two hundred acres of land respectively.
His birth occurred in West Prussia, Germany, on the 24th of April, 1856, his
parents being Martin and Eva (Kitzer) Wegner, the former born in 181 1. and
302
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the latter in 1830. Our subject comes of an old Prussian family. Martin Weg-
ner passed away in 1857, when his son Reinhold was but a year old, and his
widow afterward became the wife of John Sonnenbush. In 1870 Mr. and Mrs.
Sonnenbush and the five children of the latter's first marriage emigrated to the
United States, the family home being established in Burnett township, Dodge
county, Wisconsin. Mr. Sonnenbush first purchased a farm there and then
secured employment on the railroad. Both he and his wife are still living and
are widely and favorably known throughout the community.
Reinhold Wegner obtained his education in the schools of the fatherland and
was a youth of fourteen when he came to America with his mother and step-
father. After arriving in this county he at once secured employment as a
farm hand and for a number of years worked diligently and saved his earnings.
When a young man of twenty-five years he rented a tract of land and was
busily engaged in its cultivation until 1886, when he purchased a farm of one
hundred and fifty-two acres in Chester township. In 1889 he bought one hun-
dred and twenty acres across the road and also began cultivating that tract.
In 1907 he purchased eighty acres adjoining the latter farm, which now em-
braces two hundred acres. He has made all of the improvements on both of his
properties, which are models of their kind. The soil is naturally rich and
productive and the practical and progressive methods which he uses in culti-
vating it have brought good results. The success which he now enjoys is all
the more creditable by reason of the fact that it is attributable entirely to his
own efforts and enterprise.
In 1881 Mr. Wegner was united in marriage to Miss Albertina Daumann,
who was born in Germany in 1858, her parents being Carl and Louise (Muencke)
Daumann. The father came to the United States in 1861, locating at Mayville,
Wisconsin, where he first worked in a foundry. In 1866 he turned his atten-
tion to general agricultural pursuits. His demise occurred in 1909. To him
and his wife were born four children, of whom Mrs. Wegner was the young-
est. Our subject and his wife had seven children, one of whom died in infancy.
The others are as follows : Hettie, the wife of Albert Smith, of Atwater, by
whom she has two children ; Matie ; Ledore ; Tafiel ; Rene ; and Harold. The
five last named are still at home. The wife and mother passed away in 1008.
In politics Mr. Wegner is a democrat and at present is serving as a member
of the school board and also in the capacity of road overseer. The cause of
education has ever found in him a stanch champion. In religious faith he is a
Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination at . Waupun. The
period of his residence in Dodge county covers more than four decades and the
circle of his friends and acquaintances is a wide one.
Agricultural and stock-raising interests in Dodge county find a progressive
and worthy representative in Hiram Wcdemeyer, who owns and cultivates the
family homestead of one hundred and forty-three acres on section 12, Shields
township. He is one of the many enterprising and successful farmers and
HIRAM WEDEMEYER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
303
stock-raisers in this district who are founding a distinct and substantial pros-
perity in their chosen work by steadily adhering to systematic and practical
methods and by studying agriculture as a modern science. A native son of
Dodge county, Mr. Wedemeyer was born in Shields township on the old home-
stead, September 22, 1868. His father, Theodore Wedemeyer, was a native
of New York but came west with his parents when he was a child and with
them located in Emmet township in 1847. Here he grew to maturity upon his
father's farm until 1862, when they moved upon their Shields township farm.
Here he married in 1867 Miss Jane Kerr, also a native of New York, who was
reared and educated in Wisconsin. After his marriage Theodore Wedemeyer
bought one hundred and forty-three acres of land which was partially cleared
and improved. Upon this property he established his home and with
characteristic energy began the work of further development. Being industrious,
progressive and enterprising he met with a gratifying degree of success, be-
coming one of the prosperous farmers and business men in Dodge county.
Upon his farm he erected a substantial residence with basement and planted
a number of his acres in an orchard. He was one of the pioneers to haul milk
to make cheese in this section of the state, starting in the year 1874. However,
the principal interest of his life was given to stock-raising and he was the
breeder of the first registered Holstein cattle in this vicinity. He continued
to reside upon his farm for a number of years but finally retired and moved to
Watertown, where he passed away, February 6, 1910, having survived his wife
who died in 1886, for a number of years.
Hiram Wedemeyer grew up on his father's farm and his primary education
was received in the public schools of Dodge county. By making use of every
opportunity and by wide reading he fitted himself for teaching and followed
this occupation for five years before he entered the Wisconsin State Univer-
sity, which institution he attended for two years. When he laid aside his books
he went to Chicago, where he worked at steam heating and plumbing for about
five years. In igoo he returned to the home farm and has since given his entire
time and attention to agricultural pursuits. He has repaired and improved the
buildings which his father erected and has added a silo and a number of other
necessary structures. Stock-raising forms an important phase of his interests
and he is extensively identified with the breeding and fattening of pure-blooded,
registered Holstein cattle. In this industry his father was a pioneer, for he
was engaged in it as early as the year 1885. Mr. Wedemeyer, of this review,
has carried on this branch of his father's activities and now has a herd of
thirty pure-blooded, registered animals. He is also operating upon his prop-
erty a model dairy, giving strict attention, to the details of cleanliness and sani-
tation, and the products of this branch of his enterprise find a ready sale in the
market. For four years Mr. Wedemeyer has been acting as agent for the Elba
Mutual Fire Insurance Company and has proved himself an able business
man as well as a successful and prosperous agriculturist.
At Chicago, Illinois, on the 23d of October, 1895, Mr. Wedemeyer married
Miss Mary Norton, a native of New York state, and to their union were born
three children, Josephine, Mary and Paul W. The family are members of St.
Joseph's Catholic church of Richwood.
HISTORY OF DQDGE COUNTY
Mr. \ 'edemeyer has gained recognition ih Shields township and through-
out Dodge county as one of the most industrious and prosperous farmers of this
district. He stands constantly for progress in every branch of his activities
and the result of this policy is shown conclusively in the excellent state of his
business affairs and the flourishing condition of his farm. Upon it are found
all the improvements in equipment necessary to the conduct of a model agri-
cultural enterprise and the owner is known as one of the greatest forces in
local development and progress.
HENRY BOEHMER.
Henry Boehmer is conducting business under the name of the Mayville
Foundry Company and is sole, proprietor of the enterprise. He has always
been connected with this line of activity and his success is the merited reward
of persistent effort and capable direction. He was born in Prussia, December
24, 1833, a son of Conrad Boehmer, who lived and died in Germany. Henry
Boehmer crossed the Atlantic with his mother, who in her maidenhood was
Barbara Boether, a native of Prussia. The voyage was made in 1848 and they
spent a year in Albany, New York, after which the family came to Wisconsin
in 1849, settling in Sheboygan. Henry Boehmer proceeded on foot to May-
ville and the same year the family, consisting of mother, two sisters and Henry
Boehmer, settled in this locality, where Mrs. Boehmer passed away in 1880.
Henry Boehmer was educated in the schools of Prussia and early in life be-
came connected with the foundry business, which he followed until 1851 as an
employe of the Northwestern Iron Company. Leaving Mayville in 1851 he
went to Chicago, remaining there for some time, and then proceeded to Milwau-
kee, where he spent two years. He then returned to Mayville and worked for
Daniel Van Brunt for two years, after which he bought the business and con-
tinued there until 1859. In 1859, attracted by the discovery of gold at Pike's
Peak, he went to Colorado, where he remained for about six months. On re-
turning to Mayville he became connected 'with the Marling & Younker Com-
pany, a firm that he had previously been connected with, in the foundry busi-
ness and was thus associated until 1888, when he purchased the foundry of which
he has since been the owner. He makes farm machinery and all kinds of cast-
ings, and although now seventy-nine years of age, he helped to pour off a cast
of iron on the 18th of July, 1912. He is a remarkably well preserved man,
strong and vigorous for one of his age, and as proprietor of the Mayville Foun-
dry Company he is conducting a profitable and extensive business.
On the 20th of September, 1856, Mr. Boehmer was married to Miss Mar-
garet End, a daughter of Alois End, a native of Alsace, France, which district,
however, has since become a part of Germany. His wife, Mrs. Mary Fnd,
was also a native of Alsace. They came to America in the '30s and for a time
remained in Doolittle, Ohio, but subsequently removed to Milwaukee and later
settled in Mayville Dodge county, Wisconsin, in 1855. The father devoted his
life to farming and both he and his wife arc now deceased. Their daughter.
Mrs. Boehmer, was born August 2, 1838, and passed away on the 5th of April.
Digitized by Gc
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
305
1904. By her marriage she became the mother of eleven children. Joseph,
who was married and had two children, was proprietor of a foundry and store
at Sheboygan until he met death by accident, July 14, 1891. George died Feb-
ruary 20, i860. Alois is married, has six children, and is engaged in the foun-
dry business. Mary is the wife of John Steger, a brewer. Edward is married,
has one child and is also engaged in the foundry business. Henry works in
a gun store in Milwaukee. Katie, living in Portland, Oregon, is married, and
has five children. Mathias died November 29, 1887. Josephine is the wife of
Louis Hilkert, of Spokane, Washington, and has three children. Charles died
February 23, 1904. Hubert, born November 20, i860, is married and lives at
home.
In politics Mr. Boehmer is a democrat and has ever stanchly advocated the
principles of the party. He has served as village marshal and as a member of
the school board, while for a time he also filled the office of town treasurer. His
religious faith is that of the Catholic church. While a native of Prussia, he
has always been most loyal to his adopted land, under whose flag he has re-
sided for sixty-four years. He has worked hard and whatever success he has
achieved has come to him as the direct result of his labors. Dodge county knows
him as an industrious, reliable business man and by his many acquaintances he
is held in warm regard.
FRED W. KROHN.
Fred W. Krohn is a prominent figure in commercial circles in Mayville,
where he is engaged in dealing in furniture, musical instruments and undertak-
ing goods. He was born in the township of Theresa, Dodge county, April 18,
1887, and, as the name indicates, is of German descent. His grandfather, Wil-
liam Krohn, was born in Germany and came to America in the early '50s. He
was married in his native land and followed farming both there and in the
United States. His son, Herman Krohn, the father of Fred W. Krohn, was
born in Dodge county and also became a farmer, devoting his entire life to agri-
cultural pursuits. He has a place of one hundred acres devoted to general
farming and has brought his fields to a high state of cultivation. He married
Theresa Koepsell, who is also living.
Fred W. Krohn is the eldest of their family of six children and in the pub-
lic schools he pursued his education while spending his boyhood days on his
father's farm in Theresa township. While not occupied with his text-books he
worked in the fields and later became a cheese and butter maker, giving his at-
tention to that business until 1907, when at the age of twenty years he began
merchandising, opening a store in Mayville, where he carries a large and well
selected line of furniture, undertaking goods and musical instruments. He
passed the examination of the Embalming School of Philadelphia in 1908. The
business is conducted under the firm style of the Krohn-Kocpsell-Gruber Com-
pany, Incorporated. Their trade is large and gratifying and is the merited re-
ward of business methods which neither seek nor require disguise
306
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
On the ist of March, 1908, Mr. Krohn was married to Miss Clara Borchardt,
a daughter of Fred and Amelia Borchardt of Mayville, the former a retired
farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Krohn have one child, Andrew. They are well known-
in the town and have an extensive circle of warm friends. They hold member-
ship in the German Lutheran church and Mr. Krohn gives his political alle-
giance to the republican party. That he is well liked and popular is indicated
in the fact that he was chosen alderman of the Second ward, being the first
republican ever elected in that ward in Mayville. He has made an excellent
record, displaying in the performance of his public duties the same sterling
qualities which he manifests in his business career.
Michael Carroll, capitalist, financier and man of affairs, is well known in
business circles of Watertown as a progressive, enterprising and able man and
is numbered also among the pioneers in Dodge county, where for many years
he was one of the greatest individual forces in agricultural development. He
was born in Albany, New York, February 1, 1839, and has resided in Dodge
county since 1845. His father, Michael Carroll, Sr., was born in Ireland and
remained in his native country until he was a young man, when he decided to
come to America and crossed the Atlantic, settling in Albany, where he fol-
lowed his trades of moulding and pattern-making for some time. He there
married Miss Alice Fox, also a native of Ireland, and in 1844 came west, settling
in Dodge county, where he entered a claim of two hundred and forty acres. He
returned to New York and in the following year brought to Wisconsin his wife
and family. They journeyed by way of the Erie canal to Buffalo and then
sailed across the lakes to Milwaukee. From there they traveled with teams over-
land to Dodge county and settled upon a tract of heavy timber land among the
earliest pioneers of the state. With the energy and resolution which were
qualities in his character Michael Carroll, Sr., set himself to the task of clear-
ing and developing his land. With a portion of the lumber which he cut down
he built a small frame house, in which he lived for a number of years and the
building still stands on the place. Gradually, as his financial resources increased,
he extended the work of improvement and soon had a large portion of his farm
planted in grain. He replaced his original building with a fine frame residence
and built barns, outbuildings and granaries. From time to time he added to
his holdings until he owned several hundred acres of the finest and most produc-
tive land in the state. Upon this property he reared his family and upon it he
spent the last years of his life.
Michael Carroll of this review was reared upon his father's farm and his
primary education was received in the public schools of Dodge county. This
was later supplemented by a short course in the Watertown schools, but Mr.
Carroll's advantages along this line were very limited. This deficiency, how-
ever, he has remedied by constant and wide reading and is now one of the most
cultured and educated men in the section in which he resides. He worked upon
the farm until after the death of his father and then inherited the homestead
MICHAEL CARROLL.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
307
of two hundred and forty acres, to which he added one hundred and twenty
acres adjoining. For a number of years he farmed and developed this prop-
erty, repaired old buildings and built new ones. He however operated the
two tracts as separate farms, built substantial residences on both and the neces-
sary barns, silos and outbuildings. He continued his identification with agri-
cultural pursuits until 1883 and then rented his holdings and moved to Water-
town, where he has become active and prominent in commercial and political
circles. He has careful tenants on each farm and the fine herds of cattle, hogs
and horses are Mr. Carroll's property.
Immediately after taking up his residence in Watertown Mr. Carroll estab-
lished himself in the general merchandise business and was successful in it for
a number of years. Gradually he extended his interests and invested his money
judiciously in local real estate, purchasing lots upon which he built residences.
These he rents out with the exception of a fine modern dwelling on West Main
street, which he occupies himself. Mr. Carroll is a stockholder and director
in the Wisconsin National Bank and has other important financial interests,
which he manages in so capable a manner that he is accounted one of the most
able and efficient business men in the city.
In Emmet township, May i, i860, Mr. Carroll married Miss Mary Burke,
who was born in Ireland and who was brought to America by her parents when
she was an infant. Mrs. Carroll died upon the farm in Emmet township in
1877 an d ' s buried in St. Bernard's cemetery in Watertown. She left three
children. Michael Carroll, Jr., grew to manhood and for some time engaged in
business in Watertown. He died in this city at the age of twenty-two. Alice
married John Ryan, a business man of Watertown. She passed away some
time ago. John died when about seven years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Carroll
are devout adherents of the Roman Catholic church. Although Michael Car-
roll has reached the age of seventy-three, he seems yet in his prime, in spirit
and interests. For about thirty years he has been a resident of Watertown and
his many varied and representative activities have had their effect upon the
general development of the city. All the requisites for success he possesses in
a marked degree, for he is shrewd, energetic, persevering and discriminating
in his judgments. His work along business lines has, therefore, been constantly
constructive and has had an important effect in promoting along many lines
the commercial activity which makes for growth.
WILFRED C. HOWARD.
Wilfred C. Howard is one of the respected citizens of Waupun, in which
city he has lived since 1893, while he calls Wisconsin his home state since 1882.
He was born July 11, 1861, in Guilford, Maine, and is a son of Leonard E. and
Johanna P. (Morton) Howard. The former was born May 30, 1826, in Guil-
ford, Maine, and the latter was a native of New Hampshire. The paternal
grandfather was Leonard Howard, who was born in Leeds, Maine, in 1803 and
died in 1871. The grandmother, Cynthia M. Howard, was born in Scituate,
Massachusetts, in 1796, and died in 1888. To Mr. and Mrs. Leonard E. Howard,
308
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the parents of our subject, four children were born, as follows : George E., who
is engaged in the insurance business at Dover, Maine; Mrs. Carrie M. Robbins,
who is a resident of Leeds, Massachusetts; Wilfred C, of this review; and
Herbert M., living at Fox Lake, Wisconsin.
Wilfred C. Howard was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools and later was a student for a short time in one of the academies
of Maine. After completing his academic course he taught school in Guilford,
Maine, and later in Wisconsin. He settled in Wisconsin in 1882, at which time
he engaged in teaching school and continued in that vocation until 1883. He
then, in company with his brother, purchased eighty acres of land located west
of Waupun and upon that property he continued to live for seven years. In
1890 he purchased a farm on the west shore of Fox Lake and was there en-
gaged in general farming until 1893, at which time he bought the hardware
business of Chamberlain & Davison in Waupun and later consolidated his busi-
ness with the Bryce & Ferguson Company of Waupun and since 1006 has suc-
cessfully continued the business in his own name. He is a stockholder in the
National Bank of Waupun and also has an interest in the Fox Lake canning
factory.
Mr. Howard was united in marriage March 4, 1890, to Miss Edith J. Brown,
who was born in Liverpool, England, but later became a resident of Leeds,
Massachusetts. Her mother is still living in Maine. To Mr. and Mrs. Howard
five children have been born, namely: Blanche M., born February 12, 1892, who
is attending Beloit College; Mildred M., who was born October 8, 1894, and
died June 12, 1912; Lois M., whose birth occurred on the 19th of August, 1897;
Marjorie E., who was born August 31, 1900; and Wilfred F., born August 17,
1906.
Mr. Howard is affiliated with the republican party and has been school treas-
urer of Waupun for twelve years. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of
America and he and his wife are members of the Congregational church of
Waupun. Mr. Howard is one of the enterprising and successful merchants of
Waupun and a man who is held in high esteem by all of his acquaintances and
is numbered among the desirable and useful citizens of his part of the state.
JOSEPH BROOKS, Sr.
Joseph Brooks, Sr., is one of the most enterprising and prosperous farmers
and stock-raisers in Emmet township, where he owns and operates a fine tract
of two hundred arid thirty-five acres on section 31, west of the city limits of
Watertown. He is a native son of Dodge county and was born in Emmet
township, April 23, 1845. His father, Joseph Brooks, was a native of Ireland
and came to the United States at an early age, settling first in Massachusetts,
where he resided for a number of years: In 1844 he moved west to Wisconsin
and located in Dodge county in pioneer times. Here he found an undeveloped
and unsettled country with miles of dense forest tracts in all directions. Un-
deterred by these conditions, he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land,
from which by arduous and persevering labor he cleared the trees. He built
Digitized by Google
The above in a very good likenrs* of Willard A. Van Hrnnt.
From its inception in 1H61, until reeently, Mr. Van llrurit him been connected
with the manufacture of Van Ururit seeding machines at Horii-oii. Wisconsin.
He was born in Williamstown, Dodge County, July 13, 1847. His parents were
Daniel C. and Mary Kassutt Van lirunt.
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
311
a crude log cabin and began to farm and develop his property. By steady and
unfaltering work, directed by a perseverance which was proof against discourage-
ment, he soon had the land under the plow. As acre by acre yielded harvests,
he bought more property and extended the work of clearing the trees until he
had several hundred acres under cultivation. Upon this property he erected sub-
stantial buildings and made general improvements and little by little was re-
warded by success, becoming one of the most prosperous farmers and influential
citizens in Dodge county. Here he reared his family and spent the remainder of
his life, dying in 1894. His wife survived him many years and passed away
at an advanced age, being almost one hundred years old when she died.
Joseph Brooks of this review, grew up on the home farm and from an early
age aided his father in the work of developing and cultivating the fields. His
primary education was received in the common schools and was supplemented
by a year in the Northwestern University at Watertown. At the end of this
time he laid aside his books and returned to the home farm, where he worked
in the interest of his father until he was twenty-eight years of age. At that
time the latter gave to his son a tract of land of one hundred and seventy acres,
which constitutes a portion of his present farm. Upon this he began the work
of improvement and development and from time to time bought more land and
added it to his holdings until he owns two hundred and thirty-five acres of the
finest and most productive land in Wisconsin. Upon this he has built a fine
modern residence, an excellent barn, a granary for the protection of his crops
and a well equipped tool house. He has made many other substantial improve-
ments and is recognized in the section in which he resides as one of the greatest
individual forces in the development of agriculture into a systematic science.
He has a number of his acres planted in orchard and is besides extensively inter-
ested in raising stock. He breeds and fattens Holstein cattle and has a herd
of thirty-two head, all of pure-blooded registered stock, with a fine thoroughbred
Friesian- Holstein at the head of the herd. Another important department of
Mr. Brooks' farm is the dairy, which is modernly equipped in every particular,
special attention having been paid to cleanliness and sanitation. He gives much
of his time and attention to the conduct of this department and is successful in
it, as in all other branches of his activity, by reason of the progressive methods
which he follows and the high business standards to which he steadily adheres.
In September, 1875, Mr. Brooks married, in Watertown, Miss Maria Mc-
Donough, who was born and reared in Wisconsin. Eight of the children born
to their union are living. They are as follows: John, who is superintendent of
the beet sugar works at Chippewa, Wisconsin ; Joseph, who is in the sugar re-
fining business in Colorado; Christopher, who is studying for the priesthood in
Notre Dame, Indiana; Peter, a graduate of the Watertown high school, who
is assisting his father with the work of the farm; Daniel, who also resides at
home; Anna, the wife of Edwin Gormley, residing near Jefferson, Wisconsin;
Agnes, who married Peter Murphy, a business man of Milwaukee; and Helen,,
who lives at home. The family are devout adherents of the Roman Catholic
religion and attend St. Bernard's church in Watertown.
Mr. Brooks is independent in his political views and casts his vote for the
man whom he considers most capable of filling the position without regard to
party affiliations. He was elected and served as supervisor for one year but has
Vnl II— It
312
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
since constantly declined political honors, preferring to devote his entire time
to the management of his business interests. He is, however, public-spirited
in a marked degree and this has taken the form of active and ready cooperation
in any movement which has for its object the material, moral or intellectual
expansion of the section in which he was born.
Edward F. Pautsch, living on section 34, Chester township, is the owner of
a tract of land comprising one hundred and sixty-nine acres and devotes his
attention to the pursuits of general fanning and dairying. His birth occurred
in that township on the 4th of November, 1878, his parents being Carl and
Johanna F. (Zuhlsdorf) Pautsch, of whom more extended mention is made
on another page of this work. In the acquirement of an education he attended
the public and German parochial schools and when not busy with his text-books
assisted his father in the operation of the home farm. In 1903 he purchased
the place from his father and it has since remained in his possession. It originally
embraced one hundred and fifty-one acres but he purchased an adjoining tract
of eighteen acres and the farm now comprises one hundred and sixty-nine acres.
He erected a substantial and commodious barn on the place and in other ways
has enhanced its value and attractiveness. In connection with the cultivation of
cereals he devotes considerable attention to dairying and also raises hay on an
extensive scale.
In 1902 Mr. Pautsch was united in marriage to Miss Annie Wetzel, who
was born on the 7th of February, 1880, her parents being Fred and Louisa
(Medtke) Wetzel, both natives of Brandenburg, Germany. They emigrated to
the United States about 1868, locating in Lomira township. Dodge county, Wis-
consin, and have since remained in this county, being now residents of Trenton
township. They have four children, as follows: Mrs. Annie Pautsch; Emil,
who is a resident of Trenton township ; and Fred and Arthur, who are still at
home. Mr. and Mrs. Pautsch have one child, Leona, whose natal day was April
28, 1904. Mr. Pautsch is a devoted member of Immanuel's Lutheran church
of Burnett and acts as one of its trustees. He has won prosperity in his under-
takings as an agriculturist and he and his wife are numbered among the sub-
stantial and esteemed citizens of the county in which they have spent their entire
Frederick Kronitz. living retired in Watcrtown, was for twenty-seven years
actively identified with hotel interests in the city. As proprietor of the Wash-
ington Hotel he kept one of the finest and most modern hostelries in the county
and by his able management established himself in the front ranks of progress-
ive business men. He is a native son of Wisconsin, born in Lebanon township.
EDWARD F. PAUTSCH.
lives.
FREDERICK KRONITZ.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
313
Dodge county, March 29, 1846. His parents were Henry and Eva (Leichfeldt)
Kronitz, natives of the fatherland. t'^Thenrst of the family to settle in America
was the grandmother of our subject, who after the death of her husband in
Germany came to the United States and settled in Lebanon township, Dodge
county, where she lived to the age of ninety. The father of our subject lived
in his native country until after he had completed his term of military service
as a member of a cavalry regiment in the German army. He married and in
184^ came with his wife to Lebanon township. There he took up government
land, paying for his property a dollar and a quarter an acre. This farm he cul-
tivated and improved, struggling for success against the hard conditions of an
early period of agricultural development. Cash money was rare and most of
the business was done by trading, and even the money for taxes was raised
with difficulty. Henry Kronitz hauled his grain to Milwaukee by ox team and
sold or exchanged it in the markets of that city, returning with the household
supplies which were needed by the family. He remained upon his farm for
many years and brought it to a high state of cultivation. Eventually, however,
he retired from active 'life and moved to Watertown, where he died in 1882,
when he was seventy-seven years of age. He had long survived his wife, who
died upon the home farm in 1876. Both were members of the Lutheran church.
In their family were seven children: Wilhelmina, the deceased wife of August
Block; Carl, of Watertown; Henry, deceased; Augusta, who became the wife
of Edward Jolke and is now deceased; Frederick, of Watertown; Amelia, the
deceased wife of William Gorder ; and a child who died in infancy.
Frederick Kronitz was reared upon his father's farm in Lebanon township
and received his education in the district schools. He remained at home until
1871 and then moved to Waterloo township, where he spent four years culti-
vating and improving a tine farm of one hundred and eighty acres. In 1875
he moved to Watertown and has since made this city his home. He purchased
the Washington Hotel and conducted it along modern business lines until it
was partly destroyed by fire. He immediately rebuilt, erecting a fine brick
structure, and managed the hotel until 1902, when he retired from active life.
On the 23d of June, 1870, Mr. Kronitz was united in marriage to Miss
Wilhelmina Gorder, who was born in the principality of Lippe-Detwold, Ger-
many, April 4, 1852, a daughter of August and Louisa (Krueger) Gorder, na-
tives of the fatherland. She came to America with her parents in 1853 and set-
tled in Portland township, Dodge county, where her father operated a farm
for some time, later moving to Waterloo township, where Mrs. Kronitz grew
to womanhood. Her mother died in that section in 1872, when she was fifty-
eight years of age, and the father passed away in Watertown in 1878, at the
age of sixty-six. They had six children : Henrietta ; Frederick and August,
both of whom have passed away ; William ; Wilhelmina, the wife of our sub-
ject; and Sophie, who married Edward Kuetig, of Waterloo. Mr. and Mrs.
Kronitz became the parents of four children: August, who died in infancy;
Louis E., who married Ida Hose, by whom he has one daughter, Gretchen;
Ida. who became the wife of Otto Novack, now deceased, by whom she had
rive children, four of whom are still living, Walter, Esther, Arnold and Erna;
and Henry, who married Emma Christensen, by whom he has one daughter,
Doris. The family are members of the Lutheran church.
314
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. Kronitz gives his allegiance to the democratic party but never allows
political affiliations to influence his vote. He is interested in the growth and
development of his native section but he never seeks public office. He is known,
however, as a progressive and straightforward business man and until 1902
continued his active identification with the management of the Washington
Hotel but is now retired and enjoying a well earned rest, having acquired a
comfortable fortune and the respect and esteem of his associates and friends.
William T. Sleight has lived retired in Watertown for the past nine years,
his home being at No. 604 South Washington street. Throughout his active
business career he was successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits
and still owns an excellent farm of one hundred and fifty-four acres in Emmet
township. It was on that place that his birth* occurred, May 27, 1855. His
parents, John P. and Mary Ann (Russell) Sleight, the former a native of Lin-
colnshire, and the latter of Kent, England. The father emigrated to the United
States in 1837, sailed up the Great Lakes to Toledo, Ohio, and then traveled for
three hundred miles on foot up the Maumee and down the Wabash rivers, sub-
sequently engaging in the construction of the Wabash and Erie canal. Until
1845 he followed different occupations, being engaged principally in construc-
tion work, but in the meantime, in 1841, had made a visit to England. In 1845
he came to Emmet township, Dodge county, purchased land and for a period
of nine years was engaged in ditching, while during the remainder of his life he
carried on different manufacturing and farming enterprises. His demise
occurred October 5, 1896, when he had attained the age of seventy-six years,
while his wife was called to her final rest on February 19, 1904. at the age of
seventy-three. The remains of both were interred in Oak Hill cemetery at
Watertown. John P. Sleight had been a resident of this county for over a
half century and had gained an enviable reputation here as a substantial and
esteemed citizen.
William T. Sleight, who was the second in order of birth in a family of
four children, obtained his early education in the public schools, later attended
an Episcopal parochial school at Oconomowoc and subsequently pursued a course
of study in the Northwestern University at Watertown. After putting aside
his text-books he began farming on his own account in Emmet township, operat-
ing the farm of one hundred and fifty-four acres on which he was born. He
was busily engaged in the further cultivation and improvement of that place
until 1903, his well tilled fields annually yielding golden harvests as a reward
for the care and labor which he bestowed upon them. For the past nine years,
however, he has lived retired in Watertown, enjoying the fruits of his former
toil in well earned ease. The farm on which he was born and which he suc-
cessfully operated for so many years is still in his possession.
On the 26th of September, 1876, Mr. Sleight was united in marriage to
Miss Aminda Boomer, of Trenton township, Dodge county, her parents being
Edward J. and Jane (Woodruff) Boomer, who were early settlers of this county
WILLIAM T. SLEIGHT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
315
She was the fifth in order of birth in a family of eight children and was boro
on the 4th of January, 1855. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sleight have been born two
children, namely: Gertrude E., whose birth occurred on the 2d of December,
1881, and who is still under the parental roof; and Flora J., who was born on
the 9th of December, 1886, and passed away July 29, 1904.
Mr. Sleight gives his political allegiance to the republican party, believing
that its principles are most conducive to good government He acted as cen-
sus enumerator for the town of Emmet in 1900 and for twelve years was a
member of the school board in his district. He was reared in the faith of the
Episcopal church and fraternally is identified with Watertown Lodge, No. 49,
A. F. & A. M.. Both he and his estimable wife have a host of warm friends
throughout the community and justly merit the regard and esteem which are
uniformly accorded them.
PETER F. LANGENFELD, M. D.
Dr. Peter F. Langenfeld, one of the most capable, enterprising and reliable
physicians in Theresa, has been practicing his profession in the village since
1903 and from the very beginning his success has been assured, based as it is
upon the firm foundation of scientific efficiency. He is well known in this
section for he was born in Theresa and has here spent his entire life. His
birth occurred June 12, 1878, his parents being Peter and Josephine (Mayer)
Langenfeld. His father was born in Prussia, Germany, December 8, 1837,
and came to America in 1855 when he was seventeen years of age. He was
educated in the public schools of his native country and completed his studies
in the high school at Menasha, Wisconsin. When he laid aside his books he
clerked in a store at Iron Ridge and then came to Theresa, settling in this vil-
lage in 1861. For fifteen years he taught in the local Catholic school and also
engaged in the fire insurance business. He was prominently identified with
local democratic politics and in 1878 represented his district in the state legis-
lature. He was a notary public and was serving as justice of the peace at the
time of his death. He was twice married. His first union was with Miss Caro-
line Miller who died March 3, 187 1, leaving two children, Theresa and Albert.
In 1877 he was again wedded. His second wife being Miss Josephine Mayer,
a daughter of Joseph Mayer who worked as a laborer for a number of years
but who is now living retired in the ninety-third year of his age.
Dr. Langenfeld was the only son born to his father's second union. He
was educated in the district schools of his native village and later attended
the Beaver Dam high school. He was graduated from the medical department
of Northwestern University in 1903 and immediately located for practice in
Theresa. His active career has been short but expert knowledge and inherent
ability have made his rise rapid.
On May 23, 1912, Dr. Langenfeld was united in marriage to Miss Leona
Quandt, a daughter of Fred Quandt, a farmer in Herman township. The Doc-
tor gives his allegiance to the democratic party but is not active as an office
seeker, his entire time being taken up by his professional duties. He is a
316
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
member of the Roman Catholic church in which faith he was reared, his fa-
ther having been one of the prominent figures in the affairs of the local church
and treasurer of that organization for a number of years. Dr. Langenfcld be-
longs to the Dodge County and Wisconsin State Medical Societies and has
kept abreast with the advancement and progress which is constantly being made
along medical lines. His profession required not only special equipment and
knowledge but also a mind capable of quick and rapid concentration, a skill
which is mechanical as well as scientific and a human understanding and sym-
pathy. All these requirements for success Dr. Langenfcld possesses and upon
them he has founded his prosperity.
Edwin B. Patton has been successfully engaged in the drug business in
Waupun since 1883. He was born September 26, 1858, in Byron, Fond du Lac
county, and is a son of David and Harriet E. (Cowles) Patton, who settled
in Wisconsin in the early '40s. The paternal grandfather was John Patton and
the grandmother Aurelia (Kibbe) Patton, the former a native of Perth, Scot-
land, and the latter of Massachusetts. John Patton emigrated to America at
an early day, and purchased land from the father of James Fenimore Cooper,
and was a playmate in his boyhood days of the American novelist. David Pat-
ton, the father of our subject, established his home in Dodge county, Wiscon-
sin, and there followed farming for a livelihood. He was a veteran of the
Civil war and a member of Company D, Forty-fourth Regiment of Wisconsin
Volunteers. He died in the spring of 1865 and the mother died in 1881. They
were pioneers of Lcroy, Wisconsin, and when they bought their farm in Dodge
county the title which they received was second in line of transfer from the
government.
Edwin B. Patton was reared in his parents' home and received his education
in the public schools of Waupun. After completing his school years he re-
ceived a second-grade teacher's certificate in Dodge and Fond du Lac counties
and was engaged in teaching school in 1876 and 1878, commencing life in that
work at the age of eighteen years. He later took up work in a drug store in
Waupun in 1879 and obtained his license from the state as pharmacist in 1882.
He was employed as a clerk in the drug establishment of R. W. Wells of Wau-
pun and in 1883 he established himself in the drug business, in which he has
since successfully continued.
Mr. Patton was united in marriage on September 5, 1883, to Miss Clara
M. Seely, who was born in Marquette, Wisconsin, and is a daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. J. W. Seely. The father was engaged in the general practice of law
in Waupun for many years and is now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Patton have
one son, Frederic W., who was born July 7. 1884, and after completing his early
education in the public schools later pursued a full course in chemical engineer-
ing at the Armour Institute of Technology in Chicago and later was a gradu-
ate of pharmacy at the Northwestern University in Chicago.
EDWIN B. PATTON.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
317
Mr. Patton is affiliated with the republican party and has fraternal rela-
tions with Lodge No. 48, F. & A. «M., of Waupun, of which he is past master,
and is also the present high priest of Waupun Chapter, No. 48, and is a thirty-
second degree Mason. He also belongs to the Fraternal Reserve Insurance Com-
pany of Wisconsin, of which he is president of the local council at Waupun.
Mr. Patton stands high in the business circles of the city in which he lives and
is a man whose integrity in business matters has never been questioned. He is
one of the enterprising citizens of the county in which he lives and enjoys the
good-will and esteem of all his associates.
MICHAEL CASEY.
Michael Casey is one of the well known and prosperous farmers of the town
of Emmet, owning and cultivating one hundred and twenty acres of land in his
home place, which is situated on section 15 and constitutes a well improved and
valuable property. It was upon this farm that he was born September 12,
1850, so that he is numbered among the older of the native sons of the county.
His father, James Casey, was born in County Limerick, Ireland, where he
grew to manhood and later he was married there to Bridget Shanahan, who
was born and reared in the same county. They crossed the Atlantic to the new
world about 1835, settling first in Massachusetts, where for five years Mr.
Casey served as a watchman in a factory in the town of Lynn. In 1843 ne
removed westward to Wisconsin, making permanent location in Dodge county,
which was then a frontier district in which the work of improvement and de-
velopment had scarcely been begun. He entered eighty acres of timber land
and at once began to clear a portion in order that he might erect thereon a log
cabin in the midst of the forest. His home completed, he turned his atten-
tion to the further development of the place and acre by acre was brought under
the plow. The family experienced the usual hardships and privations of pioneer
life while living in this pioneer home during the early years of their resi-
dence in the county. Mr. Casey shot his first deer from his own doorway and
later killed a great number of deer in this district, beside much other wild
game. The feathered denizens of the forest also contributed much to the fam-
ily board and the streams and lakes of Wisconsin abounded in fish. The set-
tlers, however, had little time to indulge in hunting or fishing as a pastime,
using rod or gun only to supply the table. Mr. Casey cleared his land and made
an additional purchase of forty acres, so that his farm comprised one hundred
and twenty acres. Upon this, as the years advanced, he erected good buildings
and there he reared his family and spent his last years, his death occurring in
1889 when he was eighty-six years of age. He had for several years survived
his wife, who passed away in 1881.
Michael Casey was the second in order of birth in their family of three
sons. His boyhood and youth acquainted him with the usual experiences of
pioneer life on the farm. He attended the common schools as Opportunity of-
fered and in the summer months worked in the fields, remaining with his father
through his minority, later taking charge of the old homestead and ultimately
318
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
succeeding to the ownership of the property. He has erected a large two-story
residence upon his place, constituting one of the attractive modern homes of the
district. He has also added to and remodeled the barn, which when built was
one of the best in Dodge county. He likewise has a good house for a tenant
upon his place and he uses the latest improved machinery in carrying on the
work of the fields. He raises high-grade Holstein cattle, gives some attention
to the dairy business and is a stockholder in the Tilden cheese factory. In
business affairs his judgment is sound, his discrimination keen and his enter-
prise unfaltering.
On the 29th of October, 1890, in the town of Emmet, Mr. Casey was united
in marriage to Miss Ella Fleming, who was born, reared and educated in the
same neighborhood as her husband. They began their domestic life on the old
Casey homestead and to them have been born four children: James Thomas,
who is assisting in carrying on the home farm; Mary Catherine; Helen; and
William John.
In politics Mr. Casey is a democrat and has held several local offices. He
served as treasurer of the town of Emmet for one term and after an interval
was again elected to that office. He has been a delegate to county conventions
and has been officially connected with the schools. His wife and family are
members of the Catholic church and in the community where they make their
home are highly esteemed, manifesting all the qualities of good citizenship and
of individual worth.
JOHN P. ROFFEIS.
John P. Roffeis, who is serving for the second term as a member of the town
board of supervisors of Emmet township, is justly numbered with the leading
and enterprising farmers of his locality, as is evidenced by the neat and thrifty
appearance of his farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which is situated on
section 10. The attractiveness of Dodge county as a place of residence is indi-
cated in the fact that a large majority of its native sons have been content to
remain here, enjoying the advantages here offered and contributing to public
progress by their active and helpful interest in public affairs. To this class
belongs Mr. Roffeis, who was born in the town of Emmet, February 27, 1875.
His father, John Roffeis, was a native of Austria, in which country he grew
to manhood and was married. He soon afterward came to the new world,
making his way direct to Wisconsin and taking up his abode in Dodge county
in 1866. His first purchase of land made him owner of one hundred and twenty
acres in the town of Emmet which had been partially cleared and improved.
He at once undertook the task of further development and for some years
lived upon that place, converting the land into rich and productive fields. After
his children were grown he removed to Watertown, where he now- resides.
John P. Roffeis was reared upon the old homestead farm and acquired his
primary education in the common schools. He afterward attended the Water-
town parochial school and when his education was completed he returned to
the farm and took charge of the place. He has followed agricultural pursuits
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
319
throughout his entire life and practical experience and growing business ability
have placed him among the substantia] agriculturists of his community. There
have been few idle hours in his life. He has always been a busy man and that
his labors have been intelligently directed is indicated in the excellent appearance
of his place. Since his father removed to Watertown, in 1910, John P. Roffeis
has built to and remodeled the house and has also put an addition to the barn.
He likewise has a good tool house and granary upon his place and all equipments
and accessories of a model farm of the twentieth century. In addition to tilling
the soil he has a herd of high-grade Holstein cattle and is conducting a successful
dairy business. He is likewise a stockholder in the Union cheese factory.
Mr. Roffeis was married in Emmet on the 3d of June, 1902, to Miss Mary
Kreuziger, who was born and reared on an adjoining farm. They began their
domestic life where they still reside and they are well known residents of this
locality, having many warm friends in the neighborhood. They have one daugh-
ter, Virginia, born July 10, 1910. Their religious belief is indicated by their
membership in the Watertown Catholic church.
Politically Mr. Roffeis is a democrat, stalwart in his support of the party.
He was elected a member of the town board and after serving for one term was
reelected and is now serving for the second term as supervisor of Emmet. He
is a careful, conservative, yet progressive business man and citizen and enjoys
in full measure the high regard and good-will of all with whom he has come
into contact.
LOUIS M. BACHHUBER, M. D.
Dr. Louis M. Bachhuber is engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery
at Mayville, and his efforts are attended with excellent results. He is a native
of Dodge county, having been born in Farmersville, March 5, 1870. His father,
Max Bachhuber, was born in Bavaria, Germany, December 13, 1832, and came
to America in 1846. After residing for a time at Addison, Washington county,
Wisconsin, he removed to Milwaukee, where he lived until 1855 and then, at
the age of twenty-three years, established his home in Leroy, Dodge county,
There he owned a farm and also conducted a general store. He likewise held
various town offices and was accorded still higher public honor, being elected
to the Wisconsin state legislature, in which he served from i860 until 1864, and
was again elected in 1875. For nine years he served as postmaster of Farmers-
ville and then resigned in favor of his wife, who filled the office until 1879. His
death occurred on the 2d of February of that year. He was a democrat in his
political views and a Catholic in religious faith. In the family were twelve
children, three of whom are deceased.
Dr. Bachhuber pursued his education in St. Andrew's parochial school of
Leroy and was graduated from the Mayville high school with the class of 1889.
He then determined to enter upon the practice of medicine and for that purpose
became a student in -the medical school of the Northwestern University at Chi-
cago, from which he was graduated in 1893. In May of that year he located
for practice in Mayville, where he has remained continuously since, and through-
320
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
out the intervening years he has kept in touch with advanced scientific methods,
thus being able to render effective and resultant service in checking the ravages
of disease. He is now state medical examiner for the Catholic Knights of Wis-
consin, is surgeon for the Northwestern Iron Company of Mayville and for the
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company in Dodge county, and in
addition has an extensive private practice which makes constant demand upon
his time and energies.
Dr. Bachhuber was married May 15, 1894, to Miss Alice Griffith, a daughter
of Leonard Griffith, of Clark county, Wisconsin, who was a veteran of the Civil
war and was incarcerated for some time in Andersonville prison. He served
in the Wisconsin cavalry and was most loyal to the cause which he espoused.
For some time he followed farming in Clark county but volunteered for the war
from Dodge county. He married Amelia Reible and- their children included
Mrs. Bachhuber, who by her marriage has become the mother of one daughter,
Phyllis.
While well known in professional connections, Dr. Bachhuber is also promi-
nent in matters of citizenship, being recognized as a leader in democratic circles
in Dodge county. He was elected mayor of Mayville in 1907, again in 1908, and
for a third term in 1910, his reelections being strong proof of his capability and
fidelity in office. He was also a delegate to the national democratic convention
at Baltimore from the Second congressional district in 1912. He holds member-
ship with the Catholic Knights at Mayville and the Knights of Columbus at
Fond du Lac, while along strictly professional lines he is connected with the
State Medical Society. He holds to a high standard in his professional service
and the work which he has accomplished places him in a prominent position
among the representatives of the medical profession in Dodge county.
F. S. Jacobs has been a resident of Waupun since 1889, since which time
he has been engaged in the elevator business, formerly at Atwater, Wisconsin,
but since 1906 has had charge of the Farmers Elevator at Waupun. He was
born in Dodge county, Wisconsin, July 19, 1848, and is a son of Justin and
Mahala L. Jacobs, both of whom were natives of New York and who settled
in Dodge county, Wisconsin, in 1848. The father was engaged in farming until
1889, when he retired and established his home in Waupun, where the mother
died in 1902 and the father in 191 1, at the age of ninety-six years and six months.
He was one of the well known local preachers of the Methodist church and a
man of consistent living and Christian character. In his family were seven
children, only two of whom survive: F. S., of this review; and Mrs. A.
F. Page, of South Dakota. Two of the sons, Curtis J. and Justin, served in the
Civil war, in which the former was killed. Justin was admitted to the bar in
1871 and later became principal of the Waupun school. In 1874 he went to
California and in 1892 was elected judge of Kings county, that state, which
office he held until 1898. Jane's death occurred while she was a resident of
South Dakota and Alice passed away in Waupun. One died in infancy.
F. S. JACOBS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
321
F. S. Jacobs was reared at home and received his early education in the pub-
He schools. He later pursued a course at Ripon College, Wisconsin, after which
he was a student at the State University of Madison. After completing his
school years he went to Atwater, Wisconsin, in 1874, and in that city engaged in
the grain business. He built a station on the line of the railroad and was there
employed as station agent and telephone operator for a number of years. He
was also postmaster and served as town clerk until 1900. He built an elevator
at Atwater and while engaged as station agent at that place he also conducted a
grain and elevator business. In 1900 he sold out the property and traveled on
the road buying grain until 1906, when he took charge of the Farmers Elevator
Company at Waupun. This company was organized in 1906 with a capital
stock of ten thousand dollars divided into one thousand shares of the par value
of ten dollars each. The company is a Wisconsin corporation and the first
officers were: H. B. Landaal, president; W. F. Pautsch, vice president; M. B.
Johnson, secretary; E. A. Marsh, treasurer; and W. D. Pattee, James Whooley
and F. C. Hazen, who are also directors. The stock of this company is now
divided among four hundred and twenty stockholders, all of whom are farmers,
and no stockholder is allowed to have over ten shares of the capital stock. The
company has paid a dividend of ten per cent per annum on its capital stock.
It has recently spent two thousand dollars in repairs and improvements and
now has a capacity of twenty-five thousand bushels. Its present board of direct-
ors is as follows: J. W. Kasten, W. D. Pattee, W. H. Towne, W. F. Pautsch,
James Whooley, Fred Milhie and A. T. Dunham, of whom J. W. Kasten is
president; W. D. Pattee, vice president; W. H. Towne, secretary; and W. F.
Pautsch, treasurer.
In 1876 Mr. Jacobs was united in marriage to Mrs. Nettie Bruce, of Atwater,
and they are the parents of two children : Justin, who is proprietor of a laundry
in Waupun ; and May, who is the wife of Oscar H. Anderson, a farmer of Dodge
county. Mrs. Jacobs is a member of the Methodist church. Mr. Jacobs is an
alderman representing the First ward of Waupun, and fraternally is a member
of the Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias lodges. He has the distinction of
being the oldest grain buyer in his part of the state and is a man held in high
esteem by a large circle of friends among whom he is known to be a man of
absolute integrity in business transactions and of high moral ideas in private
life.
AUGUST J. KOEPSELL.
August J. Koepsell, proprietor of one of the leading drug stores in May-
ville, Wisconsin, was born in Lebanon, on August 12, 1875, and is a son of
Ferdinand and Katie (Heller) Koepsell. His father was born in Pommern,
Germany, in 1833, and was brought to America when he was only two years
of age, the family settling in Lebanon, Dodge county, Wisconsin. He moved
to Herman township in 1887 and followed general fanning in that section until
he retired from active life in 1912. He and his wife are now living in May-
ville.
322
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
August J. Kocpsell was one of a family of twelve children. He received
his education in the district schools of Lebanon and later attended the Mayville
high school. He served an apprenticeship under E. Sauerhering, a well known
druggist, for three and one-half years, and this experience gave a definite bem
to his ambition. He resigned his position in order to enter the University of
Illinois from which institution he was graduated in 1903. He returned to May-
ville and on August 1, of the following year, established himself in the drug
business. His success was rapid and after one year's activity he was able to
purchase on August 14, 1905, the store operated by Mr. Sauerhering, his former
employer. He combined the two enterprises and is now the proprietor of the
leading pharmacy in the city. By energy, determination and enterprise, directed
along business lines, he has attained a reputation as an active, far-sighted and
sagacious business man, whose present prosperity is merely the beginning of a
more gratifying future. He owns one of the most prosperous drug stores in
Mayville and has won his success by close application to business, earnest labor
and practical application of scientific principles.
On Thanksgiving Day, 1905, Mr. Koepsell was united in marriage to Miss
Amanda Hening, a daughter of John and Erncstina Hening of Mayville. They
became the parents of three chilidren : Florence, whose birth occurred in 1906 ;
Raymond, who was born in 1907; and Edna, who was born in 1909.
Mr. Koepsell is an example of the modern type of business man, shrewd,
keen and thoroughly efficient. He has built up the enterprise with which he
is connected from the beginning and has made it by straightforward, honor-
able and intelligent methods one of the leading establishments of its kind in
this city.
Nathan Haessly is secretary of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of
Theresa, a position which he has held since 1896. His identification with his
present line of activity dates from 1895 and the quality of his work and his rapid
progress have made him one of the enterprising business men of the village. He
is a native son of Fond du Lac county, having been born in Ashford township,
March 9, 1868. His father, Jacob Haessly, was one of the pioneers in the settle-
ment of the state of Wisconsin and came to Fond du Lac county from his native
state of Pennsylvania in 1848. He followed farming practically all his active
life and also did much surveying work, holding the position of county surveyor
for over thirty-eight years. He owned one hundred and sixty acres of land in
Ashford township which he cultivated and improved along modern lines and
upon which he is now living retired. He married Miss Sarah Fitzpatrick, a
native of Ohio, of Irish parentage. The parents of our subject are still active
and interested in the development of the state to which they came as pioneers.
They are still residing upon the homestead.
Nathan Haessly is the youngest in a family of thirteen children. He at-
tended the district schools of his native section and began his active career by
conducting a harness business in the village, establishing a shop in 1893. He
NATHAN HAESSLY.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
323
managed this business for ten years but in the meantime became identified
with the fire insurance business in 1895. In 1897 he was elected secretary
of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company and has continued in that office since
that time. He is also interested in an up-to-date garage and has the agency for
the Buick and Rambler automobiles. In December, 191 1, he purchased the flour
and feed mill in Theresa and has acted as president of the company since that
time. He is treasurer of the Theresa Union Telephone Company and president
of the new electric light company and evidences in his conduct of the affairs of
these important and representative enterprises the industry, intelligence, dis-
crimination and power of constructive organization which have made his career
successful.
In November, 1 89 1, Mr. Haessly was united in marriage in Chicago, to Miss
Mary Mauel, a native of Ashford township. They have six children, Hilary,
Florence, Mildred, Edgar, Priscilla and Caesar.
Mr. Haessly gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is a public-
spirited citizen, although he prefers to do his duty in this regard by making his
private activities useful in promoting commercial growth and development. He
belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters and the Knights of Columbus. He
has many friends in Theresa where his business attainments are well known and
where his qualities endear him to all with whom he comes in contact.
HERMAN E. KRUEGER.
Herman E. Krueger is a native son of Watertown and has lived his entire
life in his home at No. 707 North Fourth street. He is well known in local
democratic politics and is serving as assessor, having previously held various
other important positions. By discharging his duties ably and efficiently he has
made a record as an honest, conscientious, and upright public servant and has
become an influential factor in the advancement of his district. He was born
April 22, 1868, a son of Adolph and Antonia (Nowack) Krueger, natives of
Germany, who came to America, landing at New York. They came west to
Wisconsin and settled in Watertown where the father worked at his trade of
wagon-making until his death.
Herman Krueger is the seventh in a family of nine children. He received
his education in the public schools of Watertown. At the age of sixteen he
laid aside his books and obtained a position as clerk for the Bee Hive factory,
operated by the G. B. Lewis Company. For seven years he retained this posi-
tion and was then promoted to the office of foreman of the shipping depart-
ment, acting in this capacity for eighteen years and doing able, conscientious
and effective work.
On June 20, 1893, Mr. Krueger was united in marriage to Miss Lena Hab-
hagger, a daughter of Ulrich and Lena ( Gfcller) Habhagger, natives of Switzer-
land, who came to America in 1853 and located in Watertown. Three years later
they moved to a farm in Polk county. Iowa, upon which they resided until 1861
when they returned to Watertown and established their residence in this city.
The father engaged in the general commission business until 1867 when he re-
324
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
sumed farming and for two years carried on general agricultural pursuits. In
1869 he again became identified with the commission business and in this con 7
tinued until 1893 when he retired from active life. He died May 12, 191 2, and
is buried in Oak Hill cemetery. His wife resides at No. 802 North Fourth
street, Watertown. Mrs. Krueger is the fifth in a family of eight children and
was born March 3, 1868, in Emmet township. She received her education in
the Watertown public schools and remained at home until her marriage. Mr.
and Mrs. Krueger became the parents of three children: Anita, who is a
graduate of the Watertown high school, and has taught school for one year ;
Alice, who resides at home and who will graduate from the Watertown high
school with the class of 1913; and Harold, who is a pupil in the public schools.
Mr. Krueger gives his allegiance to the democratic party and has for many
years been prominent in local affairs, serving in various important public offices
and discharging his duties in an able and practical way. In 1899 ne was elected
alderman from the Sixth ward and served for six years, acting as president of
the city council for two years of that time. In 1905 he was elected supervisor
and served four years, entering upon his present office in 1909. Mr. Krueger
belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and is a member of the Platt-
deutscher Verein. For many years he has been actively interested in the growth
and advancement of his native city and has always done his utmost to promote
development. He was a member of the volunteer fire department for eighteen
years and served as treasurer of that organization for ten. His public career
exemplifies the highest political virtues — honesty, conscientiousness, and labor,
which is never self-seeking. He has besides an intelligent comprehension of
local needs and conditions and a resourceful ability which is the most marked
quality of his public service.
GUSTAV R. ROUSSEAU.
Gustav R. Rousseau, postmaster of the village of Theresa and an honored
veteran of the Spanish-American war, was born in Pomerania, Germany, on
the 25th of February, 1873. He is a son of Charles and Wilhelmina (Molden-
hauer) Rousseau, natives of Germany, where the father lived and died. After-
ward the mother of our subject married William Beitz and they came to America
in October, 1882, settling at Black River Falls, Wisconsin, where they remained
for a year and a half. At the end of that time they moved to Brownsville, where
they have since resided. William Beitz was a farmer and followed this line of
activity from the time of his arrival in America until his retirement. He and
his wife have five children, two sons and three daughters.
Gustav R. Rousseau was educated in the district schools of Dodge county
and later attended the Mayville high school, graduating from that institution in
1895. He entered Oshkosh Normal, from which he was graduated in 1897 and
for eight months afterward taught in the schools of Sheboygan Falls. In 1898
he enlisted in Company C, Second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served
through the campaign in Porto Rico and was mustered out with honorable dis-
charge, November 15, of the same year. When he returned home he again
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
825
engaged in his former profession, teaching in the graded schools of the village
of Theresa for four years. For one year he was identified with the Wisconsin
Sugar Company and for three years thereafter served as mail carrier. He was
village clerk and justice of the peace for some time and was appointed to his
present position of postmaster in 1906 and has since served with ability and
conscientiousness. He is also conducting an independent fire insurance agency,
acting in the interests of several important companies, and is doing, besides able
work as secretary of the local fire department.
Mr. Rousseau has been twice married. On January 15, 1903, he wedded
Miss Alexa Wiesenbacher, who passed away on the 7th of September, 1905.
She was a daughter of Joseph and Caroline .(Gigl) Wiesenbacher, the former
a prominent liquor dealer in Theresa. To this union was born a daughter,
Cynthia, who lives at home. On November 8, 191 1, Mr. Rousseau was again
married. His second wife was Miss Julia Anninger, a daughter of Joseph and
Margaret Anninger, the former a foreman in the Marschville Cement Works
at Theresa Station.
Mr. Rousseau gives his allegiance to the republican party, and is well known
in the affairs of the Modern Woodmen of America. He has a record of six
years' successful service as postmaster of the village, bringing to the discharge
of his duties a conscientiousness, ability and energy which have made other
enterprises with which he is connected prosperous. He gives his active support
to movements for the general welfare and is in all things capable of making his
public spirit effective for good.
GUSTAV RUECKER.
Gustav Ruecker is conducting a retail meat market in Theresa and has been
the proprietor of this enterprise since 1898, during which time he has become
well known in business circles of the village as a man of honorable commercial
standards and of enterprising spirit. Aside from his meat market he is con-
nected with various important local concerns, including the State Bank of Theresa,
of which he is the president and a director. He has been in America since
1892, but was born in Bohemia on the 8th of March, 1865. His father, Wenzel
Ruecker, was a harness-maker by trade and followed this line of occupation in
the old country until his death, which occurred in 1887. The mother of our
subject, who was in her maidenhood Miss Francesca Rudlof, was also a native
of Bohemia, and died in that country in 1891.
Gustav Ruecker received .an excellent education in the public schools and
after laying aside his books learned the butcher's trade. When he was fifteen
years of age he began working at this occupation and continued in it until Decem-
ber 2, 1892, when he came to America and settled in Chicago. There he re-
mained for a year and a half before locating in Medfprd, Wisconsin, whence
he went to Phillips and then to Kohlville, in Washington county, working at the.
butcher's trade in all of these cities. In Kohlville he established himself as an
independent merchant and there met with gratifying success for over a year,
building up a prosperous and flourishing enterprise during that time. On Janu-
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ary 20, 1898, he settled in Theresa and purchased his present store, which he
has conducted since that time. His business has expanded yearly under his able
management and has grown to be one of the important concerns of its kind in
the village. Industry and well directed activity have been factors in his success
and have placed him in the ranks of the representative and successful men of
Theresa. He does a retail business largely but for the last six- or seven years
has added to his income by shipping stock to the Chicago markets. He is the
president of the Theresa State Bank and a shareholder in that institution, as
well as actively interested in various other local enterprises.
On the 15th of October, 1892, Mr. Ruecker was united in marriage in his
native land to Miss Mary Zienezker, a native of Bohemia, and they have four
children, Richard, Anna, Ludmilla and Gabriela. The family belong to the
Roman Catholic church. As the proprietor of a well conducted business and
the president of an important bank Mr. Ruecker has become prominent and well
known in Theresa and his sterling qualities have gained for him the esteem of
those who know him.
HUGH ALEXANDER McCONAGHY.
The energies of the late Hugh Alexander McConaghy were for many years
successfully devoted to general farming and stock-raising in Beaver Dam town-
ship, where he owned ninety-four acres of well improved land, located on section
18. His life record was begun at Columbus, this state, on the 30th of November,
1850, his parents being Bartholomew and Eliza (O'Harra) McConaghy. The
father, who was born and reared in the north of Ireland emigrated to America
in his early manhood, locating in New Brunswick, where he followed his trade,
which was that of ship-building. There he met and married the mother, who
was a native of New Brunswick. In the early period of their married life they
removed to Calais, Maine, residing there until 1849, when they came to Wis-
consin, which was then known as the western frontier district. They located in
Columbia county, but nine years later, in 1858, they became residents of Dodge
county. Here the father purchased seventy-three acres of section 18. which
formed the nucleus of the homestead of his son, Hugh. The cultivation of this
place occupied the attention of the father during the remainder of his active
life, his death occurring on his farm, on the 30th of August, 1885, at the age of
seventy years. He had long survived the mother, who was forty years old
when she passed away on February 11, 1863. They are both buried in the
cemetery at South Beaver Dam.
The early life of Hugh Alexander McConaghy was very similar to that of
other pioneer lads. In his boyhood he attended the district schools and was
trained in the work of the fields and care of the stock, thus qualifying himself
for an agricultural career. He remained at home until he was twenty-
one years of age when he joined an uncle at Leavenworth, Kansas, remaining
in his employ for three years. At the expiration of that time he went to northern
Wisconsin, working in the pineries in the winter and on the farms in that section
during the summer months. His next removal was to North Dakota, where
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY 829
he filed on a homestead and engaged in farming for himself. Selling his claim
in 1880, he started eastward and for five years thereafter resided in Minneapolis.
After the death of his father he returned to Dodge county, taking possession of
the old homestead in Beaver Dam township. Here he followed diversified
farming, stock-raising and dairying. His cattle were a good grade of the Hol-
stein breed, while he raised both Poland China and Duroc Jersey hogs. Mr.
McConaghy was both enterprising and diligent and subsequently increased his
holdings by the purchase of another twenty-one acres. The land was brought
under cultivation and well improved during the period of his ownership, and
it is now one of the valuable properties of the community He remodeled the
residence, which was built during the lifetime of his father and erected a barn,
thirty-four by fifty feet with a cement floor. His entire tract is fenced with
barbed wire and all but twenty acres of it under cultivation. Mr. McConaghy
passed away on the 25th of November, 1903, but his widow continues to make
her home on the farm, which is operated by their son-in-law.
On the 7th of September, 1886, Mr. McConaghy was married to Miss Abigail
J. Roberts, a daughter of Owen and Elizabeth (Mason) Roberts. The parents
were both natives of south Wales but were married in Marquette county, this
state, in 1849. About 1853, they came to Dodge county, purchasing fifty acres
of land, in the cultivation of which the father engaged until he passed away in
1863. at the age of thirty-two years. The mother retained the farm until 1882,
when she disposed of it, investing the proceeds in a sixty-acre tract in Calamus
township. She lived to pass the seventy-third anniversary of her birth, her
death occurring in 1895. They were both laid to rest in the cemetery at Beaver
Dam. Mrs. McConaghy is the fifth in order of birth in a family of six, her
natal day having been the 28th of September, 1859. She is the mother of one
daughter, Abbie Bell, who married Harry Welch of Westford, this county, and
has one child, Florence Mildred. They reside with the mother on the McConaghy
farm.
Mr. McConaghy was a member of the Presbyterian church, as also is his
widow, and fraternally he was affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, while his political allegiance was accorded to the republican party. A
man of estimable qualities he was held in favorable regard in his community,
where he had passed the greater period of his life and had many stanch friends.
GEORGE WILLIAM CUTLER.
George William Cutler is now ably discharging the duties devolving upon him
in the capacity of city clerk of Horicon, to which position he was elected on the
2d of April, 191 2. His birth occurred in Oak Grove township, Dodge county,
on the 24th of December, 1877, his parents being Charles and Lizzie (Triden)
Cutler The father was born at North Adams. Massachusetts, in January, 1847,
while the mother's birth occurred at Richfield, Wisconsin, on the 1 ith of July,
1857. Their marriage was celebrated in this state. Charles Cutler came west
in company with his parents, who took up their abode near what is now Rolling
Prairie, in Oak Grove township, this county. There he grew to manhood and
vol n-i»
330
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
eventually became a landowner, devoting his attention to general agricultural
pursuits throughout his entire business career. In his demise, which occurred
on the 7th of April, 1887, the community lost one of its substantial and esteemed
citizens. His widow still survives and makes her home in Milwaukee. They
were the parents of four children, as follows: George William, of this review;
Bert, who is employed as a moulder in the Van Brunt factory at Horicon ; Marie,
the wife of John Evans, who has charge of the stock room at the Van Brunt
factory; and Roy, a railroad man who lives with his mother at No. 642 Thirty-
sixth street in Milwaukee.
George William Cutler obtained his early education at Rolling Prairie and
later continued his studies in the Horicon high school. He remained under the
parental roof until twenty-four years of age, when he was married and estab-
lished a home of his own. After attaining his majority he worked as a farm
hand for one year and subsequently learned the core maker's trade in the Van
Brunt factory, where he has been retained to the present time as an efficient and
faithful employe.
On the 1st of January, 1902, Mr. Cutler was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Olson, who was born near Willmar, Kandiyohi county, Minnesota, on the 26th
of February, 1875, her parents being Ole Rasmussen and Stena (Christensen)
Rasmussen, natives of Denmark. They emigrated to the United States at an
early day, locating in Minnesota, where Mrs. Rasmussen still resides. The
father, however, passed away in Denmark, in 1878, while on a visit to his native
land. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cutler have been born five children, as follows:
Gladys L., whose birth occurred on the 7th of September, 1902, and who died in
infancy; Harold, who was born on the 12th of October, 1903; Eva Marie, whose
natal day was November 7, 1906; Charles Frederick, who was born on the
26th of November, 1910, and died on the 9th of March, 191 1 ; and Francis Walter,
twin brother of Charles Frederick.
Politically Mr. Cutler is an independent democrat and at local elections casts
his ballot in support of the men and measures that he deems will best conserve
the general welfare. On the 2d of April, 1912, he was elected city clerk and
is now filling that position in a highly satisfactory and commendable manner.
He belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles and acts as secretary of the local
organization. In the community where his entire life has been spent he enjoys
an enviable reputation as a representative and respected citizen.
JULIUS W. FALK.
Julius W. Falk is operating in Mayvillc the oldest creamery in Dodge county
and is numbered among the men of the district who are representative of the
highest and most upright business standards. His enterprise was founded in
1 881 and has been operated continuously since that time, Mr. Falk assuming
ownership in 1905. By reason of his expert training in butter and cheese-making
and his business ability and shrewdness, he has made the concern expand along
modern lines of development, until it is not only the oldest but also one of the
most important in the county. Mr. Falk was born near Lima, Ohio, June 16,
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1872, a son of Carl and Wilhclmina (Huptke) Falk, natives of Germany. His
father came to America in 1871 but returned to his native country in the fall
of the following year, remaining there until 1883 when he returned to the United
States and settled in Mayville with his family. He is now residing in Kekoskee,
where he engages in work of various kinds.
Julius W. Falk is the youngest in a family of five children. He attended the
public schools of Kekoskee and when he laid aside his books, worked upon a
farm for a number of years. In 1890 he learned the cheese and butter-making
trade and has been connected with the operation of enterprises along this line
since that time. He spent some years in Greenwood, Clark county, and came
to Mayville in 1905, where he established himself in the dairy business at his
present location. Mr. Falk has managed this concern in a progressive and
enterprising way and has earned a place among the representative citizens of
Mayville by reason of his business ability and his upright commercial standards.
On November 20, 1900, Mr. Falk was united in marriage to Miss Theresa
Fitchlscherer, a daughter of Franz and Barbara Fitchlscherer, natives of Ger-
many. They are now residing in Waupun, Wisconsin, where the father is
engaged in the brewing business. Mr. and Mrs. Falk have six children, Frank,
Margaret, Clarence, Rosa, Julia and Edward.
Mr. Falk is well known in the affairs of the Modern Woodmen of America
and is a prominent figure in business circles of Mayville. He has invested his
money judiciously, mostly in real estate, and has a number of town lots in the
village in which he resides, as well as eighty acres of land in Clark county. He
gives his allegiance to the republican party and is now serving as alderman from
the third ward, discharging his public duties ably and conscientiously and always
with a view to serving the best interests of his fellow citizens.
CLARENCE A. WHEELER.
Clarence A. Wheeler, a well known and enterprising representative of agri-
cultural interests in Dodge county, has spent his entire life within its borders and
resides on the farm in Williamstown township where he was born. His birth
occurred on the 1st of August, 1865, his parents being Alfred and Mary (Brodt)
Wheeler, both of whom were natives of New York. The father, who was born
in 1824, came to Wisconsin with his brother in 1844 ar| d purchased two hundred
and twenty-seven and three-fourths acres in Williamstown township, this county,
where he established his home and where all of his children were born. His
brother purchased more than six hundred and forty acres of land here. Alfred
Wheeler improved his property, erected substantial and commodious buildings
and here spent the remainder of his life, passing away on the 20th of September,
191 1. He was among the very earliest settlers of this county and lived here for
two-thirds of a century, gaining an enviable reputation as an agriculturist and
highly esteemed citizen. His wife was called to her final rest in 1886. To them
were born five children, as follows: Lavina, deceased; John, a resident of Ke-
koskee, Wisconsin ; Leonard, who has passed away ; Clarence A., of this review ;
and Flora, deceased.
332
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Clarence A. Wheeler attended the schools of his native township in the
acquirement of an education and subsequently assisted his father in the operation
of the home farm. On attaining his majority he rented the place from his father
and after the latter's demise received sixty-three and three-fourths acres as his
share of the estate. He devotes his attention principally to dairy farming and
has twenty-six head of high-grade Holstein cattle.
On the 2d of May, 1893, Mr. Wheeler was united in marriage to Miss Bertha
Schultz, a daughter of William and Albertina Schultz, who came to the United
States from Germany in 1872 and took up their abode among the early settlers
of Dodge county, Wisconsin. To our subject and his wife have been born six
children, namely: Leslie, whose birth occurred on the 27th of November, 1895;
Harvey, whose natal day was March 2, 1899; Edgar, who was born on the 2d
of May, 1902; Leora, born October 2, 1904; Clarence, who was born on the 21st
of June, 1909, and passed away on the 9th of December, 1909; and Hazel, born
June 20, 1912.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Wheeler has cast
his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party. His
religious faith is that of the Lutheran church. His life has been one of con-
tinuous activity, and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his
community.
John A. Loehrke has been engaged in the hotel business in Mayville since
1903 and has been connected with the management of the Grand Hotel as pro-
prietor for two years. This is a well kept hostelry with all the convenient fea-
tures found in the finer modern hotels and Mr. Loehrke's able conduct of the
enterprise entitles him to be ranked among the representative business men of
the village. A fine livery which he operates in connection with the hotel is an
important extension of his interests and his management of this establishment
also has reflected credit upon his business ability. He is a native of Wisconsin,
born at Ashford, Fond du Lac county, on the 12th of August, 1867. His father,
John Loehrke, is a native of Germany, and came to America in 1840. He set-
tled immediately in Fond du Lac county and there purchased one hundred and
four acres of land and began its improvement and cultivation. Both he and
him a substantial profit.
John Loehrke of this review, is one of a family of five children. He was
reared at home and educated in the public schools of Fond du Lac county and
in the Ashford high school. When he completed his studies he became con-
nected with the Milwaukee Street Railway Company, retaining his position for
six years. When he left Milwaukee he went to Minnesota Junction and there
worked as an engineer in the mills for some time. In 1898 he became engaged
in a similar position in a sawmill in Forest county and in 1900 settled in May-
ville. Here he took charge of the city electric light plant and for three years
did able work in this capacity, abandoning it in 1903 in order to give his atten-
tion to the management of the Beaumont Hotel which he had purchased. This
JOHN A. LOEHRKE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
333
enterprise he operated until 1910 when he bought the Grand Hotel which he has
since conducted. He pays special attention to the comfort and convenience of
his guests and strives in every way to make his hostelry modern and up-to-date
in every department. In this he has succeeded to a gratifying degree. The
livery business which he operates in connection with the hotel is also bringing
him a substantial profit.
On November 14, 1908, Mr. Loehrke was united in marriage to Miss Ida
Marohl, a daughter of August Marohl, a native of Germany, who farmed in
Wisconsin for a number of years. He has now passed away. Mr. and Mrs.
Loehrke have one daughter, Esther, who lives at home. Mr. Loehrke is well
known in business circles of Mayville as an enterprising, progressive and straight-
forward man. As proprietor of the Grand Hotel he has made many friends
outside of this district among the guests who have been his patrons, and his
geniality and his sterling qualities have gained for him the esteem of all who
know him.
EMIL M. UEHLING.
Emil M. Uehling is cultivating and developing the farm in Shields township
upon which he was born and by progressive and practical methods has made it
one of the valuable properties in this district. He owns one hundred and forty-
five acres on section 24, adjoining the village of Richwood, and has other im-
portant business connections in this part of Wisconsin. A native of Dodge
county and the son of a pioneer in its settlement, Mr. Uehling was born upon
the homestead July 26, 185 1. His father, Frederick Uehling, was a native of
Saxony, Germany, and grew to manhood and married in that country. He
was a butcher by trade and followed that occupation in Saxony for a number of
years. In 1847 he crossed the Atlantic to America and came directly west to
Wisconsin, where he made a permanent location in Dodge county. Here he pur-
chased one hundred and twenty acres of wild timber land and in partnership
with a neighbor cleared the dense growth of trees and from the lumber cut down
built a log cabin in which he resided for some time. After a short period Mr.
Uehling purchased his partner's interest in the land and gave his entire attention
to its further improvement and development. By hard labor and unremitting
industry he gradually cleared the entire tract, to which he later added eighty
acres. Little by little this land was also brought under the plow and improve-
ments made upon it. A sawmill was erected near Richwood and Mr. Uehling
was successful in the conduct of this enterprise. He sawed all kinds of lumber
and as his financial resources grew he installed a set of burrs and converted his
mill into a grist and flour mill. This enterprise he managed for a number of
years and met with well deserved prosperity. He raised a large family in Dodge
county and died in this section in the fall of 1892. His widow, Margaret (Krug)
Uehling, survives him and has reached the ninety-fourth year of her age.
Emil M. Uehling is one of a family of eight sons and three daughters, all of
whom grew to maturity. He was reared upon his father's property and his
childhood was similar to that of most farmers' boys with the exception of the
fact that his educational advantages were more extensive. He attended the
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334
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
common schools of his native section and also studied under a private tutor
whom his father employed for the family. This was later supplemented by a
two years* course in the Northwestern University at Watertown, and when Mr.
Uehling finally laid aside his books he was well equipped in training and educa-
tion to face the world. He remained upon his father's farm for several years,
aiding in its operation, and after renting the property for a time purchased it
and has since given his entire time to its development and improvement. He
remodeled the buildings which were already upon the property and made im-
provements on the house and besides constructed two new barns and a silo with
a cement floor, one of the first of its kind ever erected in Shields township.
Mr. Uehling carries on general farming and is likewise extensively interested
in stock-raising, breeding and fattening registered Holstein cattle, of which he
has a herd of forty-five, with a fine registered animal at its head. For a num-
ber of years Mr. Uehling has been conducting a model dairy upon his farm
and uses the products of this branch of his enterprise in a cheese factory which
he established and which he conducts along modern lines. He was one of the
promoters of the Farmers Elevator Company of Richwood, which a few years
ago burned down. He is numbered justly among the successful and enterprising
farmers and the able and progressive business men and public-spirited citizens of
Dodge county.
On May 7, 1877, Mr. Uehling was united in marriage to Miss Alicia B.
Volkert, a daughter of Adam Volkert, a pioneer in the settlement of Dodge
county. Mrs. Uehling was born and reared in this section and remained at
home until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Uehling became the parents of four
children: Max, who passed away at the age of four years; Emmeline, who
married Otto Roenius, of Grand Rapids, Wisconsin, by whom she has two chil-
dren, Carl and Elizabeth; Otto L., who is married and resides upon the home
farm with his wife and daughter Dorothy ; and Frances, who lives at home.
Mr. Uehling gives his allegiance to the democratic party but has never been
active politically in the sense of office seeking. Since the beginning of his
career he has been closely connected with agricultural interests in Dodge county
and has gained a degree of success which makes him individually prosperous
and a factor in the general development of this section.
JOSEPH N. WELSCH.
Joseph N. Welsch, who has owned and operated a livery stable in May-
ville for the past four years, was born in Lomira township, this county, March
28, 1882. He is a son of Leonard Welsch, for many years identified with the
agricultural development of Lomira, but a native of Erie, Pennsylvania. The
grandparents were born in Germany but in early life they came to the United
States, becoming residents of the Keystone state. The mother, whose maiden
name was Theresa Marx, is also of German extraction.
The eldest child in a family of four, Joseph N. Welsch was reared at home
and at the usual age began his education in the common schools of his native
township. Having resolved to adopt a commercial career, he later went to
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
335
Milwaukee and took a course in a business college, remaining in that city for
six years. His first position was that of bookkeeper for the Milwaukee Coli-
seum Company, following which he entered the employ of the Southwest Coal
Company in the capacity of timekeeper. In 1908, he returned to Dodge county
and established a livery stable at Mayville. His barn is well equipped and con-
ducted and as it is the only enterprise of the kind in the town he is doing a
profitable business.
In September, 1908, Mr. Wetsch married Miss Mary Braun, a daughter of
John and Anna Braun, natives of Germany, but now residents of Fond du
Lac county, this state, where the father engages in farming. They are the par-
ents of two daughters, Alice and Gertrude.
In matters of religious faith, Mr. and Mrs. Welsch are consistent members
of the Roman Catholic church. Although his connection with the business in-
terests of Mayville has been comparatively short, it has been of sufficient length
to enable Mr. Welsch to manifest those qualities which entitle him to the re-
spect and esteem of his fellow townsmen. As a citizen he is public-spirited and
progressive, while in matters of business he is trustworthy and reliable, con-
ducting his transactions in an honest and upright manner.
WILLIAM D. STACY.
That William D. Stacy has done effective work as justice of the peace and
gained the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens by conscientious and
able administration of the affairs under his charge is evidenced by the fact
that he has been reelected to office again and again and has a record of thirty-
two years of continuous and faithful service. During this time he has been
honored in this district as a judge possessed of a broad-minded tolerance which
is not leniency and a courage of conviction which is not ostentatious. Since
188 1 he has filled his present position and the quality of his work has effectively
demonstrated his fitness. He has been a resident of Wisconsin since he was
eight years of age but was born in Lindsay, Victoria county, Ontario, February
10, 1839, a son of Benjamin and Mary (Dwyer) Stacy, the former a native of,
County Wexford, Ireland, and the latter of County Tipperary. The pater-
nal grandparents, Joseph and Mary (Murphy) Stacy, lived all their lives in
County Wexford and died in that section. They had four children, William,
Benjamin, Mary and Clarissa. Joseph Stacy was a devout member of the
Presbyterian church, while his wife was an adherent of the Roman Catholic
religion. The maternal grandparents of our subject were John and Nancy
(Commons) Dwyer, also natives of Ireland, who moved to Canada at an early
date and died in that country. They had a large family of children, among
whom were Thomas, William, Mary. Catherine, Julia, Grace, Ann and Mar-
garet.
The father of our subject, Benjamin Stacy, was reared in Ireland upon a
farm and early in life learned the tailoring trade, which he followed for some
years in his native country. Crossing the Atlantic, he landed in Canada, set-
tling in Quebec in 1824. There he bought a small tract of land, upon which
336
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
he lived until he moved to Ontario, where he purchased a farm of two hun-
dred acres, which he afterward improved and developed. For seven or eight
years he conducted a general store at Lindsay and met with well deserved suc-
cess. For some years his income was increased by the rent of a brewery which
he built as an investment but this, together with his store, was later destroyed by
fire. He disposed of what property remained and in 1847 came t0 Dodge
county, settling upon a farm in Emmet township, which he developed until
his death in 1873, when he was almost seventy-seven years of age. He was a
man of broad culture and of excellent education and his interests lay largely
along lines of progress in methods of public-school development. He demon-
strated the force of some of his ideas while serving as school superintendent
and did much able work in this capacity. He and his wife were members of
the Roman Catholic church and always devout adherents of its doctrines. They
had twelve children, six of whom grew to maturity, namely: William D., of
this review; Mary, deceased; Benjamin, a resident of Waukesha county; Mar-
garet, the wife of John Darcy, of Clyman township; Clarissa, deceased; and
Joseph J., of Rossland, British Columbia.
William D. Stacy was eight years of age when he came to Dodge county,
and there he grew to manhood upon his father's farm. The traditions in his
family and the example set him by his father taught him the value of an educa-
tion and he improved every opportunity to increase his knowledge. He at-
tended the district schools and read constantly when not at work in the fields,
and when he was nineteen years, of age commenced making practical use of
his learning by teaching in the public schools. For over twenty years he fol-
lowed this occupation and during that time instructed many children in the
specified branches, as well as in the comprehension of the true value and ad-
vantage of culture and education. He moved to Jefferson county in 1865, and
lived upon a farm in Watertown township from that date until 1873. It was
not until 188 1, however, that he abandoned teaching, being elected in that year
justice of the peace for the first time and entering upon a period of thirty-two
years of faithful service. His judgments are known to be fair-minded and
tolerant and his standards of integrity high, and his fellow citizens have re-
warded his intelligent work by retaining him in office and at the same time have
benefited themselves by securing a competent and just official.
On the nth of September, 1865, Mr. Stacy was united in marriage to Miss
Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, who was born in Watertown township, September 5,
1845, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Hughes (Reynolds) Fitzpatrick, natives
of Ireland, the former born in County Wexford and the latter in County Louth.
Mrs. Stacy's paternal grandparents were Morgan and Mary (Carroll) Fitz-
patrick. Her parents came to America about the year 1845 ano * settled first in
Gardiner, Maine, coming from that state to Watertown, where they passed the
remainder of their lives. iMrs. Stacy was the only child born to their union.
To Mr. and Mrs. Stacy seven children were born: Benjamin, who passed away
when he was twenty-eight years of age; William, who is a printer in Water-
town and who married Miss Catherine Ryan, by whom he has three children;
Edward, who is superintendent of a candy factory in Fort Wayne, Indiana,
and who married Miss Anna Jones, by whom he has five children, Ruth, Benja-
min, Anna, Edna and William; Frank J., who has charge of a candy factory
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
33?
in Fort Worth, Texas, and who married Miss Mary Enright, by whom he has
two children; Mary J., who was a teacher in the public schools of Watertown
and whose death occurred when she was twenty-seven years of age; Clement
S., who is engaged in the grocery business in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and who
married Miss Anna Green, by whom he has three children, Clement, Frank
and Gerald ; and Bessie, who married Julius Podolske, of Watertown, by whom
she has three children, Richard S., Joseph and Edward A.
Mr. Stacy is one of the foremost men in Watertown at the present time, by
virtue of his position and by reason of his qualities and standards. The char-
acter of his interests is manifested by the nature of the work to which he has
devoted his energies, his school-teaching and his public life, in both of which
he has given his attainments and knowledge to the service of others.
FRED HELLING.
Fred Helling, engaged in the cultivation of an excellent farm of eighty
acres in Williamstown township, has lived thereon throughout his entire life,
his birth occurring on the 22d of May, 1869. His parents were Fred and Dora
(Dehring) Helling, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former born
on the 12th of January, 1827, and the latter on the 20th of September, 1829.
It was about 1855 * na * Fred Helling, Sr., emigrated to the United States, com-
ing to Wisconsin and purchasing land near Chester, Dodge county. He re-
sided there for about four years and then purchased land in the town of The-
resa, where he made his home for about six years. About 1868 he purchased
the farm of eighty acres which is now in possession of our subject, continuing
to reside thereon until within two years of his death. His last days were spent
in Mayville, where he passed away in February, 1898, after a residence of more
than four decades in this county. He had won success in his undertakings as
an agriculturist and was widely recognized as a substantial and esteemed citi-
zen of the community. It was about 1857 that he wedded Miss Dora Dehring,
who had emigrated to this country with her sisters and located in Wisconsin.
Her demise occurred on the 23d of May, 1885. She became the mother of
nine children, five of whom survive, as follows : Mary, who is the wife of Charles
Bonack, of Williamstown township, Dodge county; Anna, who gave her hand
in marriage to Louis Kurtz, of Mayville, Wisconsin; Fred, of this review;
Emma, who is the widow of Fred Steitz and resides in Mayville; and Frank,
living in Williamstown township.
Fred Helling obtained his education in the district schools and after putting
aside his text-books assisted his father in the work of the home farm until the
latter's retirement. At that time the entire management of the property de-
volved upon him and he has since operated the same on his own account. The
place comprises eighty acres and is well improved in every particular. He has
brought his fields to a high state of cultivation and golden harvests annually
reward his labors.
On the 5th of November, 1895, Mr. Helling was united in marriage to Miss
Lina Spiegelberg, a daughter of August and Augusta (Carrow) Spiegelberg,
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338
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
both of whom were natives of Prussia, Germany. August Spiegelberg emi-
grated to the United States in May, 1868, and Augusta Carrow crossed the
Atlantic in July following. They settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin, and were
here married on the 17th of November, 1869. Mr. Spiegelberg, an agriculturist-
by occupation, bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres three years
after his arrival in this country, being busily engaged in its operation until
March, 1900. At that time he put aside the active work of the fields and took
up his abode in Kekoskee, Wisconsin, where he passed away on the 10th of
May, 1900. His wife is still living. They had six children, four of whom sur-
vive, namely : George, who is a resident of Brownsville, Wisconsin ; Mrs. Lina
Helling; Emil, who makes his home in Montana; and Darwin, living in Browns-
ville, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Helling have two children, as follows: Arno,
whose birth occurred on the 2d of July, 1896; and Alfons, who was born on the
10th of June, 1904.
Mr. Helling gives a general allegiance to the democratic party but often
casts his ballot independently in support of the men and measures he deems
best fitted to conserve the general welfare. His religious faith is indicated by
his membership in the Lutheran church at Mayville. He is respected in the
community where his entire life has been spent, being known as a man of up-
right principles and industrious habits who conducts all of his transactions in
an honorable manner.
JOHN MUTH.
John Muth is living retired in his pleasant home at No. 608 Division street,
Watertown. For fifty-six years he was engaged in the cigar-making trade
in this city, spending thirty-three years of this time as foreman of the shop
operated by a Mr. Wiggenhorn. He had special training and natural ability
and soon became known as an expert workman as well as an honorable and
straightforward business man. He was born in Nassau, Germany, October 16,
1838, a son of Philip and Caroline (Heck) Muth, natives of the fatherland,
who came to America in 1840, settling in New Orleans, Louisiana. Subse-
quently the subject of this review and his mother returned to Germany on
account of the latter's failing health, but in 1848 they again came to America
and joined the father, who had remained in New Orleans working as a tailor.
In 1849 Philip Muth, having met with indifferent success in the south, came to
the northern states with the intention of finding a suitable place to establish
himself. Returning in order to join his family, he died on a boat on Lake
Michigan and was buried when the vessel reached Milwaukee, in 1852. His
wife and son came to Watertown and located in that city, where the mother
died in 1908.
John Muth is the eldest in a family of five children. He received his edu-
cation in the public schools of Watertown and when he had completed his
studies learned the cigar-making trade. In this line he continued until his
retirement in 1905, being employed for thirty-three years as foreman of a shop
belonging to Mr. Wiggenhorn. His activities in this line were only once iiiter-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
339
rupted. On August 12, 1862, he enlisted for the Civil war in Company E, Twen-
tieth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served until July 14, 1865, on which
date he was mustered out at Galveston, Texas, with the rank of sergeant.
In April, i860, Mr. Muth was united in marriage to Miss Mary Biesner,
who was born in New York city, May 15, 1841. Her parents were natives of
Germany and came to America shortly after their marriage, settling in New
York, where they remained until 1853. In tn *t year they came to Dodge county,
Wisconsin, and located in Columbus, whence in 1859 they came to Watertown,
where both passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Muth are the parents of five children :
Amelia, who married Gustaf Scherz, of Milwaukee; Matilda, who married D.
Cannon, of Jancsville, by whom she has one child; Mary, the wife of Wil-
liam Tannhauser, of Madison, Wisconsin, by whom she has two children,
Ruth and Gertrude; Ida, who married O. W. Kipp, of Milwaukee, by whom
she has one child; and John, who resides at home with his parents.
Mr. Muth is a member of the Cigar Makers' Benevolent Association, and
prominent in the affairs of O. D. Pease Post, No. 94, G. A. R., Department of
Wisconsin. He is a democrat in his political beliefs and actively and intelli-
gently interested in public affairs. He served for two terms as alderman and
for one term as bond commissioner from the second ward and also held the
position of alderman for two terms from the sixth ward of Watertown. In
the sixth ward he also served as supervisor, bringing to the discharge of his
official duties the same intelligent activity, conscientiousness and industry which
made his business career successful. He has many friends in Watertown who
respect him for his high qualities of mind and character and esteem him as
a representative and worthy business man as well as an honored veteran of
the Civil war.
WILLIAM E. SPIERING.
William E. Spiering is the well known owner and publisher of the Waupun
Democrat and is numbered among the influential and well respected citizens of
Dodge county. He was born in Mayville, Wisconsin, March 15, 1877, and is a
son of Henry and Augusta (Springer) Spiering, both of whom were natives of
Germany. The former, when a child, emigrated with his parents to America in
1841 and settled in Milwaukee. The latter came with her parents to America
in 1849 and settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin. Carl Spiering, the paternal
grandfather, removed from Milwaukee to Mayville, where he settled in 1843
and was the first man to build a brick house in Dodge county. The land upon
which he established his home was an unredeemed wilderness, which by hard
toil gradually became transformed into fertile lands, on which for many years
Carl Spiering was successfully engaged in farming. Henry Spiering, the father,
was a boy four years old when he came with his parents to the United States.
He received his earlv education at home and after passing the required examina-
tion before the court was later admitted to the Wisconsin bar. He was the
founder of the Dodge County Pioneer in 1875. which was the first German paper
published at that time west of Milwaukee. He later sold the Pioneer and some
340
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
time after established the Mayville News in 1892, which he sold in 1907. Both
of these papers are still published and are among the influential weekly publi-
cations of Dodge county. Mr. Spiering was for three terms a member of the
state legislature and he was honored by being elected to almost every city office
in Mayville. To Mr. Spiering and his wife thirteen children were born, ten of
whom are living. The mother of the family still lives at Mayville, Wisconsin.
William E. Spiering was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools in Mayville. He then became a pupil in Wartburg Seminary
at Dubuque, Iowa, and was later a student at Waverly, Iowa. After completing
his education he engaged with his father in the newspaper business. He then
established the Lomira Review at Lomira, Wisconsin, in 1901, and sold out in
1902, after which time he traveled in various parts of the country until 1908,
when he came to Waupun, buying an interest in the Waupun Democrat in 1910
and later, in 1912, he purchased the remaining interest held by other parties,
since which time he has been sole owner and publisher of the Waupun Democrat.
That journal was established in 1900 by William A. Wells and its first number
appeared on March 9, of that year. Mr. Wells sold the paper to Powell & Sand-
born in October, 1901, and by them it was published until 1908, at which time
Mr. Sandborn retired from the business and Mr. Powell continued the publica-
tion until December, 1910. In that year Professor Hubble and William E.
Spiering bought the paper and continued its publication in copartnership until
191 1, when Mr. Hubble retired and in 1912 sold his interest in the paper to
William E. Spiering, who has since successfully continued its publication as a
weekly.
Mr. Spiering was united in marriage on November 27, 1903, to Agnes Bou-
cher, of Menominee, Michigan, and they have a family of two children : Mel-
bourne, who died in infancy; and Ottilia, at home. Mr. Spiering is independent
in politics and is fraternally connected with Lodge No. 48, F. & A. M., at Wau-
pun, Wisconsin. He and his family are members of the Congregational church.
Mr. Spiering, as owner and editor of the Waupun Democrat, is one of the in-
fluential citizens of the county in which he resides and is a man whose well
known reputation for integrity in business and uprightness of character places
him among the citizens who by consistent living is numbered among the useful
members of the community in which he lives.
The business interests of Mayville are ably represented in the person of
Byron Barwig, whose family has for nearly half a century been prominently
identified with the industrial and political development of the town. His fellow
townsmen have repeatedly honored him by calling him to the highest office in
the municipality, the duties of which he has discharged with the same efficiency
and distinction as his father, who was the second mayor of the town. He is
a native of the state, his birth having occurred in the city of Milwaukee, on the
29th of July, 1862, and is a son of the late Charles Barwig, Sr. The father
was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, his natal day being the 19th of March. 1837.
BYRON BARWIG.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
341
and there he passed the first eight years of his life. Together with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. John Barwig, he emigrated to the United States in 1845, coming
direct to Wisconsin. The family located in Milwaukee, which at that time was
only a small village, and there Charles Barwig was reared to manhood and
educated. After leaving the public school he entered the Spencerian Business
College, being graduated from that institution in 1857. On January 8, of the
same year, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Schwartzburg, mother of our sub-
ject. The first eight years of their domestic life they passed in Milwaukee, but
at the expiration of that time they came to Mayville, locating here in 1865.
Here Mr. Barwig established a distillery and wholesale liquor house, which he
profitably conducted until 1888, when he sold out to his sons, Charles A. and
Byron, who continued the business under the firm name of Barwig Brothers, his
energies during the remainder of his active life being devoted to the real-estate
business. He was not only a business man of more than average discernment
and sagacity but by reason of his foresight and sound judgment served the
community most efficiently in various official capacities. During the pioneer
days he was chairman of the municipal board and president of the village, and
subsequently had the distinction of being the second mayor of the town, serv-
ing for two terms in this capacity. He was also president of the school board
for many years and was at one time a member of the board of county super-
visors. He achieved more than a local reputation both as a public official and
business man, and in the late '80s was elected to represent the second district
of Wisconsin in the United States congress, being retained in office for three
consecutive terms. Fraternally he had attained high rank in the Masonic order,
being a member of Mayville Lodge, No. 62, F. & A. M. ; Horicon Chapter, No.
24, R. A. M. ; Fond du Lac Commandery, No. 5, K. T. ; and the Consistory of
Milwaukee. To Mr. and Mrs. Barwig there were born five children, our sub-
ject being the third in order of birth. The other members of the family are as
follows: Emilie, the widow of Fred Schwartz; Charles A., who is a resident of
Wausau; and George and Robert, of Chicago. The mother passed away on
October 9, 1909, and the father on the 16th of February, 1912. He had attained
the age of seventy- four years, ten months and twenty-seven days, and as he
possessed an exceptionally fine constitution had until a short time prior to his
demise been in good health and escaped all of the infirmities of old age. Two
successive strokes of paralysis, however, terminated a long and useful career,
removing from the business circles of Mayville one of its most estimable and
highly respected citizens, to whose enterprise and public spirit it is largely in-
debted for its progress and development.
Reared in a home of comfortable circumstances the boyhood and youth of
Byron Barwig was noticeably free from the hardships and privations which
fell to the lot of many of the sons of Dodge county's pioneers. He was edu-
cated in the local schools, and upon his graduation from the high school ter-
minated his student days and began his business career. From that time until
1888 he was associated with his father, but in the latter year together with his
brother, Charles A., he purchased the business, which they conducted in part-
nership until 1902. Byron Barwig then bought his brother's interest, and has
since continued the business alone, retaining the old firm name of Barwig Broth-
ers, however. He has been very successful in the development of his inter-
342
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ests and is identified with various local enterprises and in ic
vice president of the Stale Bank of Mayville, the duties of wl
discharged from 1908 to 1910.
In Chicago, Illinois, on the 30th of November, 1892, Mr. Bat
in marriage to Miss Mary Rahlfs, a daughter of George and
Rahlfs. The father is now deceased but the mother is still livini
Mrs. Barwig have been born two daughters and a son, in the f
Adele Elisabeth, Elsa Marie and Byron Ralph.
Mr. Barwig is a prominent member of the Masonic order,
with Mayville Lodge, No. 62, F. & A. M. ; Horicon Chapter, No
Fond du Lac Comrnandery, No. 5, K. T.; and the consistory
His allegiance in matters politic he accords to the democratic p
early manhood has taken an active and helpful interest in rm
In 1888, he accompanied his father to Washington in the capacil
He remained there for two years and during that time obtained ;
modern political methods which has proven invaluable to. him.
official career on the 7th of April, 1896, when he took the oath of 1
serving two years. He was reelected in 1904 and again in 1906,
years, beginning in 1900. he was a member of the circuit court jur
was a delegate to the democratic convention held in Denver in i<
member of the committee appointed to notify W. J. Bryan of his
the presidency. He has always taken a deep interest in all matti
port and in 1906 and 1907 was vice president of the Dodge Count;
tion. The year following he was elected president, retaining t
191 1. For twenty-one years he was president of the Northweste
ciation, having been elected to this office in 1889, his long period 1
ing no doubt as to his general fitness for the office and the effkiei
he fulfilled his duties. Mr. Barwig is a man with marked powers (
practical views and well conceived ideas, which he executes wit!
and decisiveness characteristic of one of positive aim and d<
Whatever he undertakes is given intelligent consideration, as he
thing which is worthy of his efforts merits his highest endeavors.
Rev. John H. Tietema has been pastor of the Dutch Rcfor
Randolph for one year and has become widely recognized as a u
divine. His birth occurred in the Netherlands in 1869, his parent
and Anna (Leppers) Tietema. The father, who was born in <
on the 15th of May, 1836. emigrated to the United States in I*
at Orange City, Iowa, where he worked as a printer. Subsequei
the ministry, being ordained by the Sioux City Presbytery in 1
charge was at Greenleafton. Minnesota. His demise occurred t
April, 1898, at Bemis, South Dakota, where he had resided but
was on the 7th of June. 1865, that he wedded Miss Anna Leppers,
on the lSth of January. 1K41. her parents being Garrett and
REV JOHN H. TIETEMA.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
313
Leppers, of the Netherlands. She is still living and makes her home at Baldwin,
Wisconsin. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kasper Tietema were born eight children.
Garrett, whose birth occurred on the 7th of March, 1866, died in 1872 and
was buried in the Netherlands. Lubertus, whose natal day was March 8, 1867,
married Miss Bertha Vanzanten and resides at Slayton, Minnesota. John H.,
of this review, was the next in order of birth. Arie, who was born on the 13th
of February, 1870, died in 1891 and was buried at Bemis, South Dakota. Wil-
liam, who was born on the 26th of December, 1871, makes his home at Baldwin,
Wisconsin. Garrett, whose birth occurred on the 10th of August, 1874, passed
away in Waukesha. Anna, born October 16, 1876, resides at Baldwin, Wisconsin.
Albert J., who was born on the 2d of February, 1880, married Miss Elizabeth
Feenhuis and established his home at Bemis, South Dakota. He met death by
accident, being drowned while in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
John H. Tietema who, as a youth of thirteen, accompanied his parents on
their emigration to the United States, was educated at McAllester College, in
St. Paul, Minnesota, and received his diploma in 1899. In tnat vear ne was
ordained by the Aberdeen (S. D.) Presbytery and was given a charge at Bemis,
South Dakota, where he acted as pastor of the Presbyterian church until the
fall of 1902. Subsequently he spent five years in the town of Alto, Fond du
Lac county, Wisconsin, and then removed to Sheboygan Falls, this state, where
he served as pastor of the Dutch Reformed church for four years. In January,
1912, he came to Randolph, Wisconsin, and became pastor of the Dutch Reformed
church here, since which time his labors have been a forceful element in the
moral development of the community. He is a member of the Synod of Chicago
and the Classis of Wisconsin of the Dutch Reformed church.
On the 2d of July, 1902, Rev. Tietema was united in marriage to Miss
Gertrude Flipse, her parents being Dennis and Anna (Kappers) Flipse, natives
of Cedar Grove, Wisconsin. From that point Mr. Flipse removed to Baldwin,
Wisconsin. Rev. and Mrs. Tietema have two children, namely: Ruth Johanna,
who was born at Sheboygan Falls, on the 15th of September, 1909; and Casper
John, whose birth occurred at Randolph, Wisconsin, on the 14th of March, 1912.
OWEN HARTT.
Owen Hartt follows diversified farming and stock-raising in Calamus town-
ship, where he owns two hundred acres of land on section 17. He is a son of
Edward and Mary (Lonergan) Hartt, and has always resided in Dodge county,
his birth having here occurred, March 1, 1867. The father was born in Ireland
in 1837 and there passed the first nineteen years of his life. Feeling that condi-
tions in America afforded better opportunities for enterprising young men, he
emigrated to the United States in 1856, and thereafter made this country his
home. The first year of his residence in the new world was passed in New
Jersey, but at the expiration of that time he continued his journey westward to
Wisconsin. He came direct to Beaver Dam and for a time worked as a section
hand on the railroad. He subsequently turned his attention to agricultural
pursuits, first locating on a farm in Beaver Dam township. From there he
removed to a farm in the vicinity of the present site of South Beaver Dam,
344
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
where he passed the remainder of his life. The mother, who is also a native
of Ireland, came to the United States in 1864 and was married in Beaver Dam.
To this worthy couple there were born nine children. Owen, of this review,
is the eldest. Nellie, who was born in 1869, is the wife of Frank Thurston, a
resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Agnes, who died at the age of twenty-one
years, is buried in St. Patrick's cemetery, at Beaver Dam. Jennie, who was
born in 1873, is the wife of William Welch, a resident of Beaver Dam. Eliza-
beth, who was born in 1875, became the wife of Louis Zinke, of Beaver Dam.
Annie, who was born in 1877, ' s a resident of Milwaukee, this state. Edward,
whose birth occurred in 1879, resides in Fall River, Wisconsin. Laura, who was
born in 1881, and Margaret, whose natal year was 1886, are living at home with
the mother. The father passed away in 1889 and was buried in St. Patrick's
cemetery. He was one of the well known pioneer agriculturists of this section
of the county and during the long period of his residence had made many friends.
There was nothing of an unusual nature to distinguish the boyhood and
youth of Owen Hartt from those of other lads who were born and reared in
this section of Wisconsin during the formative period of Dodge county. About
the time he began his education in the district schools he began his preliminary
training as an agriculturist by assisting with the lighter duties about the home
farm. Upon laying aside his text-books, he gave his undivided attention to agri-
cultural pursuits, remaining under the parental roof until qualified to start out
for himself. He has met with success in his chosen field of activity and now
holds the title to two hundred acres of land, one hundred and forty of which
are under cultivation. In connection with the cultivation of his fields he is
engaged in raising graded stock, thus materially augmenting his annual income.
In 1893, Mr. Hartt was united in marriage to Miss Mary Sheedy, who was
born in Ireland in 1867, a daughter of Thomas Sheedy, also a native of the
Emerald isle. She came alone to this country, coming direct to Beaver Dam,
where she joined an uncle, with whom she made her home until her marriage.
The family of Mr. and Mrs. Hartt numbers four children, as follows : Agnes,
who was born in 1894; Edward, whose natal year was 1896; John, whose birth
occurred in 1898; and Genevieve, who was born in 1900. The eldest daughter
met with a most unfortunate accident at the age of three years, which left her
blind.
The family attend St. Patrick's Catholic church at Beaver Dam, in which the
parents hold membership. Mr. Hartt also belongs to the Catholic Order of
Foresters. A man of commendable business methods and a worthy citizen, he
enjoys the respect and esteem of his fellow townsmen and neighbors, among
whom he numbers many friends.
HOMER BISHOP HUBBELL.
Homer Bishop Hubbell is descended from Welsh ancestors who settled in New
England in 1645. Born on a farm in Fairfax, Vermont, June 19, 1857, he is now
in his fifty-sixth year. He had the usual experiences of a farmer boy and at first
attended the country schools of his native town. Later he was prepared for
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
college at the New Hampton Institute and at Barre Academy, both well known
private schools of the Green Mountain state at that time. He was graduated
from Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, in 1878, with the degree of
A. B., and three years later received the degree of A. M. from the same institu-
tion. Coming west soon after his graduation he was employed as a teacher and
school principal in several Illinois towns and cities, a work which he had pre-
viously begun in Vermont by teaching a large country school and "boarding
around" when only sixteen years old.
Duri ng his residence in Illinois Mr. Hubbell served four years as deputy
clerk of the circuit court and recorder of deeds at Princeton in Bureau county,
and also studied law and was admitted to the bar. He holds the degree of LL. B.
from the Union College of Law, Chicago. By teaching and other work he was
enabled to repay in full the balance of money he had been compelled to borrow
to complete his education.
In 1889 Mr. Hubbell was called to Wisconsin as principal of the Beaver
Dam high school, a position that he retained for eighteen years, also serving
as city superintendent during the latter part of this period. During his admin-
istration many improvements were introduced into the city school system and he
was recognized as one of the most progressive and successful educators of
the state. In 1900 he was the democratic nominee for state superintendent and
ran well ahead of his ticket in his own city and county, but the republican tidal
wave of that year left no democratic survivors on the shores of Wisconsin.
Altogether he has had twenty-five years experience in teaching.
In 1910 Mr. Hubbell was employed by the census bureau under the rules of
the classified civil service to act as a special agent in taking the census of
manufacturers for Dodge county and a portion of Milwaukee. He has also at
different times devoted considerable attention to newspaper work and during
191 1 was one of the editors and proprietors of the Waupun (Wis.) Democrat.
June 24, 1893, Mr. Hubbell was united in marriage to Miss Edna C. Flanders,
the first kindergarten teacher of the Beaver Dam public schools, who proved a
most faithful and devoted helpmate and whose untimely death September 26,
1906, was universally lamented. To them were born two daughters — Helen,
now aged seventeen, a student of Wayland Academy, and Celia, who at the early
age of nine, followed her mother into the life eternal December 31, 1906.
Mr. Hubbell is a son of George A. and Jane (Bishop) Hubbell. His father
died in 1902 at the old family residence in Fairfax, Vermont. His mother, at the
age of nearly four score years, still survives to brighten the home of her Wis-
consin son. Another son, Charles G. Hubbell, resides at Brattleboro, Vermont
Being New England pioneers, many of Mr. Hubbell's ancestors were promi-
nent in the Revolution and the War of 1812. One of them, Stephen Fay. kept
the famous "Catamount Tavern" at Bennington, Vermont, in which the council of
safety met and disciplined the "Yorkers" with the "beech seal." His son, Dr.
Jonas Fay, acted as surgeon for Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain boys
at the capture of Ticonderoga, and was the author of the Vermont declaration
of independence.
Homer E. Hubbell, the paternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch,
whose mother was a daughter of the above named Dr. Jonas Fay, practiced law
for more than sixty years in the courts of Vermont. He was for eleven years
348
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
a member of the legislature and constitutional convention, and held many other
important and responsible offices of his town, county and state.
Mr. Hubbell has therefore inherited traditions and associations in which he
takes pride. We may add that he has traveled extensively, is a lover of ait
and literature, and is interested in every form of social and educational progress.
He has been for seventeen years a director of the Williams Free Library and
during the last five years has served as its president.
He has also given much attention to lecture courses, historical societies and
literary clubs. He enjoys fraternal orders and is & member of all Mason*:
organizations up to and including the thirty-second degree. In these varioas
bodies he has held many of the highest official positions. He is a past grand
high priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Wisconsin.
In politics Mr. Hubbell is classified as an independent democrat. In religion
he is a loyal communicant of the Episcopal church. His friends affirm, however,
that he is tolerant in his opinions and liberal in his views on all subjects.
Charles Hawks, vice president of the Horicon State Bank, and promtneK
in local business and fraternal circles, was born in Juneau, December 14, 187}-
and is a son of Eli and Caroline E. ( Potter) Hawks, the former of whom was
born in Madison, county, New York, in 1829 and the latter in Schuyler county in
1837. The father came to Dodge county in 1855 and settled in Juneau, where
at first he engaged in the grain business. Later, however, he was appointed
postmaster and held that office at the time of his death, April 10, 1000. His
widow resides at times with the subject of this sketch and spends the remainder
of her time with her daughter in La Crosse. They were the parents of three
children: Flora E., who married Dr. George W. Lueck, of La Crosse; Horace,
who passed away at the age of ten months; and Charles, of this review. The
father was welt known in local and state politics and held various important
offices, including that of state representative from this district, serving in the
general assembly from 1878 to 1882.
Charles Hawks was educated in the public schools of Juneau and is a grad-
uate of the Juneau high school. At the age of sixteen he obtained a position in
an abstract office in Juneau and continued in this capacity for three years, after
which he was appointed bookkeeper in the Citizens Bank of Juneau and did
able work in this position from December, 1894, to September, 1896, on whsh
date he came to Horicon. Here lie assisted in the organization of the Horicoo
State Bank and served as assistant cashier in that institution until September,
1897. when he became cashier. In 1912 he was promoted to the office of vice
president and is still serving, discharging his duties ably and judiciously He
is prominent in various other important enterprises, being treasurer of the
Horicon Telephone Company and also secretary and treasurer of the Oak Hill
Cemetery Association. He was among the organizers of this body and has given
much time and attention to its affairs.
CHARLES HAWKS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
349
On June 22, 1898, Mr. Hawks was united in marriage to Miss Linda Yankey,
who was born in Lowell, August 19, 1874, a daughter of Gottlieb and Anna
(Marugg) Yankey, the former a native of Poland and the latter of Switzerland.
The father came to America when he was a young man and settled first in
Watertown, where he followed the trade of cabinet-making. Later he removed
to Lowell and there engaged in the furniture business, in which he continued
until about 1880, when he moved to Juneau and there established a furniture
business which he operated in conjunction with an undertaking parlor. He was
successful and prosperous in a business way and conducted his enterprise along
the most modern and progressive lines until 191 1, when he disposed of his hold-
ings and retired, moving to Horicon, where he is still residing. Mr. and Mrs.
Hawks became the parents of four children: Charles, Jr., born July 7, 1899;
Ralph Eli, born December 17, 1900; Doris, born September 15, 1902; and Helen,
who was born March 15, 1909, and died March 20, 191 1. The family belong to
the Presbyterian church.
Mr. Hawks gives his allegiance to the republican party and is well known
and prominent in political affairs. For four years he did able and conscientious
work as a member of the board of aldermen and was for two terms city treasurer.
In April, 1912, he was elected mayor of Horicon and is still serving, bringing
to the more public aspects of his life the same business ability, judicious dis-
crimination and practical and progressive ideas which have made his banking
career successful. In fraternal circles, too, he is well known and prominent,
being a member of Horicon Lodge, No. 40, F. & A. M., and Horicon Chapter,
No. 24, R. A. M. He belongs to the council and commandery in Beaver Dam
and is a member of the Wisconsin Consistory. He is one of the most prominent
Masons in Horicon and has passed through all of the chairs of the organiza-
tion, being at the present time treasurer of his lodge. He is also active in the
affairs of the Odd Fellows, belonging to Horicon Lodge, No. 87, and is like-
wise a member of the Modern Woodmen of America camp.
ROBERT T. ROBERTS.
Robert T. Roberts is engaged in the real-estate, loan and insurance business
in Randolph. His entire time has been passed in Dodge county and that his
record is a worthy one is indicated by the fact that many of his stanchest friends
have known him from his boyhood to the present time. He was born in West-
ford, Wisconsin, April 13, 1879. His father, Edward Roberts, a native of
Wales, came to this country when a young man and settled near the town in
Wisconsin which was named in honor of his native country. He afterward
removed from Wales to Columbus, Wisconsin, where he worked for his brother,
Hugh Roberts, until his earnings were sufficient to enable him to purchase the
farm in Westford township upon which he now resides. He married Ann
Roberts, in 1877, and they have continuously lived at the place which is still their
home. Their seven children were there born, namely : Robert T. ; Katherine,
who died in infancy and was buried in Bethel cemetery in the town of Elba,
Wisconsin; William E., born in August, 1883; Mary Jane; Thomas E.,.\vho is
350
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
employed by the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company ; Annie, the wife
of William H. Jones, of Chicago, who is employed in one of the south side
branches of the Chicago postoffice ; and Edward H., who is attending the high
school at Randolph.
Robert T. Roberts completed his education by study in the high school of
Randolph and, making his home in that place, he is now conducting a real-
estate, loan and insurance agency. He has negotiated many important realty
transfers, has placed many loans and writes a large amount of insurance each
year for he concentrates his energies upon his business with a singleness of
purpose combined with industry and perseverance that cannot fail to win success.
On the 14th of July, 1909, Mr. Roberts was married to Miss Katherine M.
Jones, a daughter of Hugh W. Jones. She was born in 1879 and for several
years taught school in the rural districts, while for six years she was a teacher
in the schools of Randolph. Mr. Roberts belongs to the Masonic fraternity,
also to the Gideons and the Equitable Fraternal Union, while his religious faith
is that of the Welsh Calvanistic Methodist church. He has always lived in this
community and his close conformity to high standards of life has gained him
the warm and enduring regard of those with whom he has been associated.
Eugene A. Clifford, the present incumbent of the office of city attorney,
both in his private practice and in the discharge of his public duties is mani-
festing those qualities which give promising assurance of a successful career
Descended from one of Dodge county's pioneer families his birth occurred ir
Clyman on the 5th of December. 1886. He is of Irish extraction, the paternal
grandfather, John Clifford, having been born on the Emerald isle. Coming
to Dodge county in the early pioneer days he located on a farm in Emmett town-
ship, where he passed the remainder of his life. There on the 20th of Sep-
tember, 1844, his son Dominic, the father of our subject, was bom. He, too,
followed an agricultural career until 1885, when he withdrew from the work of
the fields and came to Juneau, where he is now living retired. On the 25th of
January, 1873, he was married to Miss Ellen Kelley, also a native of Dodge
county, her birth having occurred on the 8th of November, 1850. Of this mar-
riage there were born five children : Michael and Dominic Francis, editors of
one of the leading newspapers of Dodge county, "The Independent;" John, who
is mentioned at greater length elsewhere in this work ; Eugene A., our sub-
ject ; and Julia, the only daughter, who is living at home, as also are all of the
sons with the exception of the third. Mr. Clifford is public-spirited and takes
an active interest in local politics, giving his support to the progressive faction
of the democratic party. While living at Emmett he held the office of treas-
urer of the school district and chairman of the township and served in vari-
ous other capacities. Dominic Clifford is a Roman Catholic in religious faith
Eugene A Clifford was still in his infancy when his parents removed to
Juneau, where he was reared and acquired his preliminary education Having
resolved to adopt the legal profession for his vocation, he subsequently matrini-
EUGENE A. CLIFFORD.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
351
lated in the law department of the University of Wisconsin, where he pursued
his professional studies. He made a splendid record as a student, applying him-
self zealously to the mastery of the principles of jurisprudence, for which he
manifested an unusual aptitude. He was awarded his degree at the age of
twenty-two years, and immediately returned to Juneau and established an office.
During the intervening four years he has fulfilled his early promise and is
making a very creditable record. He is happily endowed with a retentive mem-
ory, keen mentality and rapid powers of reasoning and has at his ready com-
mand a vocabulary which enables him to express himself fluently and to the
point. His cases are prepared with care and deliberation, every point being
carefully considered and arranged in well ordered sequence. His caution in this
respect together with his fine penetration, clearness of his expositions and readi-
ness of his answers has won him well merited recognition in local circles as an
able representative of his profession. He is now and has for some time past
been serving as deputy city clerk, while for two years he has been filling the
office of city attorney.
Being unmarried Mr. Clifford makes his home with his father. He is a com-
municant of the Roman Catholic church, and in politics he is a progressive
democrat. He was elected secretary of the Democratic county committee in
191 2, which position he now holds. He possesses the force and determination
of character which inspire confidence and is rapidly building up a lucrative
practice, numbering among his clients some of the town's leading citizens and
business men. Representing the third generation of his family, he is widely
known in this section and has many friends who are interested in the develop-
ment of his career and prophesy for him a promising future.
JOHN McADAMS.
One of the early settlers in Wisconsin who has been connected with a great
deal of the agricultural development of the state is John McAdams, who came
to Jefferson county in 1849. He was at that time a child of two years and he
remained in that section until he came to Dodge county in 1889, where he has
since resided. From his youth he has worked upon a farm and has been con-
nected with agricultural pursuits under pioneer conditions, clearing timber, grub-
bing stumps and breaking wild land. At the present time he owns and culti-
vates one hundred and twenty-five acres on section 23, Shields township, and
is recognized as one of the leading and representative farmers of the district.
He was born in Niagara county, New York, June 2, 1847. His father, Ter-
rance McAdams, came from his native country, Ireland, to America when he
was a young man and located in Niagara county, where he engaged in farm-
ing. In 1849 ne moved west to Wisconsin and located in Jefferson, where he
worked at anything which would bring him an income. By strict economy he
saved enough money to buy a town lot, upon which he erected the first house
and there resided for nine years. At the end of that time he traded his prop-
erty in Jefferson for eighty acres of land in the county, which he cleared, im-
proved and cultivated for a number of years. Here he raised his family of
352
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ten children and died upon his farm in 1879. He married Miss Sarah Mc-
Carty, also a native of Ireland, who came to America when she was a child of
thirteen and was reared and educated in New York state. She survived her
husband for a number of years and died in August, 1908.
John McAdams grew up on the homestead in Jefferson county and when
he was still a child assisted in the work of clearing timber and grubbing stumps.
He remained with his father until he was twenty-three years of age and had
the advantages of a common-school education. After his marriage, which oc-
curred in 1876, he farmed in Jefferson county for a few years and then moved
to Dodge county upon his present farm. He located upon this property in 1889
and immediately began the work of further development. He has a fine mod-
ern residence, good barns and a new silo and has made other substantial changes
and improvements. He gives his attention to general farming and dairying
and is especially interested in the breeding and raising of a fine grade of Hol-
stein cattle. For a number of years he owned a threshing machine operated by
horse power and threshed in Jefferson county during the period of his resi-
dence there. He continued in this business when he came to Dodge county
but substituted a steam-power engine for his former one. He did business in
both Jefferson and Dodge counties until 19 10. when he abandoned this branch
of his activities in order to devote his entire time to farming, dairying and
stock-raising. In the course of years Mr. McAdams' ability and force of char-
acter have drawn him into important business relations in this section of the
state and he has promoted various enterprises of importance, among which
may be mentioned the Posey Creamery, which is now a cheese factory.
Mr. McAdams married in Jefferson county, February 29, 1876, Miss Mar)'
Ann Donohue, a daughter of Patrick Donohue, a pioneer in the settlement of
Dodge county. Mrs. McAdams died upon her husband's farm, March 21. 1898,
leaving two children : Mary Ellen, the wife of William De Witt, of South Da-
kota; and John K., of whom further mention is made elsewhere in this work
Mr. McAdams of this review has lived in Wisconsin since his childhood and
in Dodge county he is known as one of the prominent factors in early agri-
cultural development and in later upbuilding. His life has not been in any way
conspicuous but his steady and quiet industry has accomplished a distinct pros-
perity which places him among the leading and representative men of his sec-
One of the most prominent men in public life in Shields township as well
as one of the most active and successful farmers and progressive business men is
John K. McAdams, who is identified with the rural free delivery service and
prominently and favorably known in democratic politics in Dodge county. He
was bom in Jefferson county, January i, 1881, and is a son of John and Mary
Ann (Donohue) McAdams, of whom further mention is made elsewhere m this
volume.
tion.
JOHN K McADAMS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
353
When he was eight years of age John K. McAdams came with his parents to
Dodge county. He received his primary education in the public schools of Shields
township and supplemented this by a two years' course at the Sacred Heart Col-
lege in Watertown. When he returned home he aided his father in the opera-
tion of the farm and became well known as one of the progressive and active
agriculturists in this part of Dodge county. He is the owner of an improved tract
of land of one hundred and sixty acres in Perkins county, South Dakota. At the
present time he is giving a great deal of his attention to the operation of a steam
threshing outfit which he has owned for ten or twelve years, and during the season
he does a great deal of threshing for the farmers in Dodge county. For several
years past he has been connected with the rural free delivery service and has
proven most capable and satisfactory in the discharge of his duties. Mr.
McAdams uses an automobile in which to carry the mail when the roads are in
condition and this greatly facilitates his labors by saving time and energy.
Mr. McAdams' political activities form one of the vital interests of his life.
Since casting his first vote he has been affiliated with the democratic party, as is
also his father, and has steadily upheld throughout his official career the principles
and policies for which that party stands. Mr. McAdams' ability and effective
work is demonstrated by the fact that in the various offices in which he has
served he has been retained for long periods of time. For over ten years he was
a member of the town board and served for eight consecutive years as town clerk.
He has been a delegate to both state and county democratic conventions and has
done able work in the cause of school expansion during the term of his service as
treasurer of the school board. In all the various activities of his life he has
demonstrated excellent business ability, careful and conservative business instinct
and sterling qualities of mind and character. In his public capacities as in his
private relations he has gained the confidence and esteem of the entire community
and although he is still a young man, has made definite advancement on the road
to prosperity.
HERMAN ZASTROW.
Diversified farming and dairying engage the attention of Herman Zastrow,
who resides on section 25, West ford township, where he owns one hundred and
thirty-four acres of land. A native of Dodge county, he was born in Herman
township, on the 24th of May, i860, his parents being Charles F. and Fredericka
(Zuelsdorf) Zastrow. The father was born and reared in Germany, his natal
year being 1833. About 1853 or 1854, he emigrated to the United States, locat-
ing in Herman township, where he passed away on the 3d of August, 1891.
Mr. and Mrs. Zastrow were married in Herman, in 1859, and there were born
their four children in the following order: Herman, our subject; Ottillie, who
was born in 1863 ancl died January 18, 191 1, being laid to rest in Oakwood
cemetery at Beaver Dam; Frank, who was born in 1866, and is a resident of
Beaver Dam ; and Albert, who married Margaret Scherger and is living in
Herman township. The mother, who was born in 1837, made her home in
Herman until after the death of her daughter, when she removed to Beaver
Dam, and is now living with her son Frank.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
The entire life of Herman Zastrow has been passed in Dodge county. His
energies were early directed along agricultural lines, his efforts being rewarded
with success. After his marriage he engaged in farming for himself in Herman
township, where he remained for two years. In 1891, he located on his present
place, in the cultivation of which he has since been engaged. One hundred and
twenty of his hundred and thirty-four acres are being tilled and annually pro-
duce harvests, the quality and quantity of which well repay him for his persistent
labor. In connection with his general farming he does considerable dairying
and raises graded stock.
Mr. Zastrow was married in 1886 to Miss Ottillic Haferaeister, a daughter
of Charles Hafemeister of Beaver Dam, and to them have been born four chil-
dren: Eleanor Julia, whose birth occurred on the 5th of July, 1889; Arthur,
who was born April 14, 1893; Hilda, whose natal day was March 18, 1895;
and Edwin, who was born December 30, 1897. They are all living at home, the
sons assisting their father with the work of the farm.
In religious faith the family are Lutherans, holding membership in the First
German church in Beaver Dam. Mr. Zastrow is one of the diligent and enter-
prising citizens of his community, where his prosperity is rightly attributed to
honest effort and unfaltering purpose, which qualities have characterized his
undertakings from early youth.
Jacob Burger is one of the extensive landowners of Dodge county, having
five hundred and twenty-three acres divided into different farms, and his record
shows what may be accomplished by hard work, unfaltering industry and un-
flagging perseverance. He had but limited educational opportunities and that
he possesses good business ability is evidenced in his success. He was born in
Rauxheim, near Kreuznach, in the Rhine province of Germany, August 16, 1840.
His father, John Burger, also a native of that country, came to America in 1847
and followed farming in the new world. He made his home in Clyman township
and passed away at the venerable age of eighty-two years. He married Christina
Weber, who was also a native of Germany but who became a resident of the
United States and here died in 1857.
Jacob Burger was a lad of about seven years when he came with his family to
Wisconsin and through his youthful days he worked with his father until he
reached the age of eighteen, when he and his brother purchased an interest in
a threshing machine and continued in that business for six or seven seasons.
When twenty-one years of age Jacob Burger and his brother each received from
their father fifty acres of land and the subject of this review, on attaining his
majority, began farming on his own account, but still lived at home, remaining
there to the time of his marriage, which was celebrated in 1865, when Miss
Maria Irving became his wife. She was born in Albany, New York, March 27,
1842, a daughter of Thomas Irving, who was born in Ireland and died in Clyman
township at the age of sixty-two years. Her mother, who bore the maiden
name of Mary Casey, was born in Ireland and also passed away in Clyman town-
ship, at the age of sixty-two.
JACOB BURGER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
855
Following his marriage Mr. Burger built a house and barn upon the fifty-
acre tract which he had received from his father and also added other improve-
ments. He cleared and developed the land, on which he carried on general farm-
ing and dairying. At different times he has bought other tracts and, while he
has disposed of some of his purchases, his holdings are still extensive. His first
purchase after he began farming for himself was a twenty-acre tract which he
sold later and bought forty acres and afterward one hundred and sixty acres.
He sold the fifty acres which he had received from his father to his brother.
He then bought another forty acres, all situated in one district, and subse-
quently he invested in the twenty-nine and a quarter acres tract upon which
he now resides. Here he built a modern residence in an attractive style of arch-
itecture and an excellent barn, since which time, or for a period of five years,
he has lived upon this place. About fifteen years ago he bought one hundred
and thirty-six and a half acres, which he still owns, and forty acres in the town
of Lowell that is still in his possession. About four years ago he purchased
seventy-seven and a half acres from Joseph Metzger and this and his other farms
are all now rented. He devotes all of his time to looking after his properties
and he has always engaged in the raising of sheep, having at present a herd of
three hundred. His holdings aggregate five hundred and twenty-three acres and
the soil is rich and productive, much of the land being under cultivation, while
the remainder is used for pasturage.
Mr. and Mrs. Burger are the parents of six children: Sarah, the wife of
Joseph Holstein; Mary, the wife of John Scheberle; Ella, at home; Catherine,
the wife of Henry Scheiber, of Emmet township ; Christina, the wife of Michael
Thoma; and Cora, who is the wife of James Acker, of Lake Mills. Mr. and
Mrs. Burger are pleasantly situated in a comfortable home and their earnest toil
in former years enables them to enjoy many of the comforts of life. He has
ever worked persistently and energetically to develop and improve his farms and
his capable business management and industry are manifest in his present
prosperity.
FRANZ BRUNKE.
For thirty-eight years Franz Brunke has been following the cigar-maker's
trade in Mayville and during the time has built up a flourishing business along
this line, his enterprise expanding with his growing reputation. The concern of
which he is the head is one of the largest of its kind in the city and is ably con-
ducted along practical and modern business lines. Mr. Brunke has been work-
ing at his trade since he was seventeen years of age and has based his present
success upon specialized knowledge and training. He has been in America since
he was fourteen years of age being born in Brandenburg, Germany, May 16,
1853. His father, Frederick Brunke, was also a native of that province and re-
mained in Brandenburg until 1867 when he came to America and settled in
Hustisford, Wisconsin, where he worked at the shoemaking trade which he had
learned in his youth. His residence in Mayville dated from 1897 and in this
village he died in 1905, when he was ninety years of age. He married Miss
35fi
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Louise Lchmann, a native of Germany, born in 1816. She died in 1900, when
she was eighty-four years of age. In their family were two children, of whom
the subject of this review is the younger. His brother August, was born in Ger-
many and came to America with his parents in 1867. When he had completed
his education he taught school in Beaver Dam for some time and then became
identified with the real-estate business. In company with our subject he platted
all the west portion of Mayvillc and became prominent in local business circles.
He died in this city in 1899.
Franz Brunke began his education in the German public schools and com-
pleted it in a night school in Milwaukee. For some time after his arrival in
America he worked upon a farm but abandoned that occupation when he was
seventeen years of age in order to learn the cigar-maker's trade. He studied the
details of this trade in Milwaukee where he remained for four years, coming to
Mayvillc in 1874. Here he established himself independently in the cigar-making
business and has followed it since that time. His enterprise was conducted at
first upon a small scale but has gradually expanded until it gives employment at
the present time to seven cigar makers and two strippers. Some of his output
is shipped to Minnesota and sold in that state and in the surrounding country.
In June, 1878, Mr. Brunke was united in marriage to Miss Helen Tillmann,
a native of Mayvillc and a daughter of Adam and Louise Tillmann. Her father
was a wagon maker by trade and followed this occupation for some time, aban-
doning it eventually in favor of farming, in which line of activity he was en-
gaged at the time of his death which occurred in 1909. His wife is still living.
To Mr. and Mrs. Brunke have been born five children : Edwin, who is in partner-
ship with his father, and who is married and has two children ; Walter, who is
also in business with his father ; Bruno, who is a graduate in pharmacy and who
is studying medicine in Marquette University ; Herbert, who is engaged in the
jewelry business at Red Granite, Waushara county; and Leonie, who lives at
home.
Politically Mr. Brunke gives his allegiance to the democratic party and for
seventeen terms was supervisor of the county. He is prominent in the Masonic
order, holding membership in Vesper Lodge, No. 62, F. & A. M., of Mayvillc.
He is one of the representative citizens of the village in which he has resided for
thirty-eight years and has many friends in this part of Dodge county. He seeks
his success in a business way and has been rewarded by seeing his enterprise
expand and develop year by year. Training and long experience have combined
to make him an expert workman and, guided and controlled by business ability,
have been factors in a gratifying and well deserved prosperity.
Varied commercial and industrial interests have claimed the attention of
Ferdinand Albert, sole proprietor of the Mayvillc Fuel Company and president
of the local canning company, both thriving enterprises. He was born in Hori-
con, Dodge county, on the 8th of October, 1864, and is a son of Charles and
Angusta (Fritz) Albert, both natives of Germany. The father came to America
FERDINAND ALBERT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
357
in the early '50s, locating in this county. A farmer by vocation he acquired
land in the vicinity of Horicon and there continued his agricultural pursuits,
until about two years before his death when he retired and removed to Mayville,
where he thereafter made his home. He passed away in 1903 at the age of
seventy-one years, but the mother is still living. To this worthy couple were born
twelve children, our subject being the fourth in order of birth.
Ferdinand Albert was reared amid the pioneer conditions which yet pre-
vailed in the rural sections of Dodge county during his toyhood. His educa-
tion was completed in the high school at Horicon, following which he gave his
undivided attention to the cultivation of the home farm for a time. He sub-
sequently withdrew from farming and learned the trade of butter making,
which he followed for five years and then engaged in the dairy business on his
own account at New Holstein, Calumet county. He resided there for nine
years, but at the expiration of that time, in 1899, came to Mayville, although
for two years thereafter he was interested in the factory at New Holstein.
Next he organized the F. Albert Dairy Company, of which he was president,
with plants located at Chilton, Calumet county, Thorp, Clark county, and
Vesper and Hansen, Wood county, Wisconsin. He disposed of his interest in
this business in the spring of 191 2, in order to give his entire attention to other
enterprises with which he was connected. Two years prior to that, in 1910, he
engaged in the coal and wood business, also handling cement, oil, gasoline and
kerosene, under the firm name of the Mayville Fuel Company. It was formerly
a partnership concern but Mr. Albert is now the sole proprietor. He is a man
of more than average ability in matters of business, possessing the clear judg-
ment, sagacity and decisiveness of action, which enables him to readily recog-
nize and utilize to his advantage opportunities not perceptible to men of less
perspicacity. Anything he undertakes is pursued with that unceasing energy,
determination of purpose and intelligently organized plans which enables him
to carry it to a successful issue.
On March 17, 1891, Mr. Albert was married to Miss Emma Garling, a
native of Mayville and a daughter of Carl and Sophia (Albert) Garling, who
were born in Germany. The father, who passed away in 1904, was for many
years successfully identified with the agricultural interests of this county. The
mother is still living and now makes her home in Mayville. Mr. and Mrs. Albert
have had three children, a daughter, Valerie, who is at home, and two who are
deceased. The family is well known and highly respected in this community,
Dodge county having been the residence of both the Albert and Garling families
for more than half a century.
ALBERT J. CLARK.
Albert J. Clark, one of the native sons and prominent agriculturists of Dodge
county, is the owner of about six hundred acres of land in Williamstown town-
ship and makes a specialty of raising small fruits and vegetables. His birth oc-
curred in that township, on the 19th of February, 1863, his parents being Amasa
B. and Louisa (Ivory) Clark. The father, who was born on the 21st of June,
358
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
1823, passed away on the 23d of February, 1899, while the mother was called to
her final rest in 1900. It was in 1845 tnat tnc paternal grandfather of our subject
removed with his family from Jefferson county, New York, to Wisconsin, locat-
ing first in Burnett township, this county, and later in Williamstown township.
He had five children who grew to maturity. Amasa B. Clark was married in New
York and came west to this state when a young man of twenty-two years, locat-
ing on the farm which is now the home of our subject and continuing to reside
thereon throughout the remainder of his life. The period of his residence in
Dodge county covered more than a half century and he long enjoyed an enviable
reputation as a substantial agriculturist and respected citizen. To him and his
wife were born three children, as follows: Judson H., who was the father of two
children and passed away at Parma, Michigan, in 1903 ; Albert J., of this review ;
and Elvie M., who gave her hand in marriage to Leon Reible, of Mayville. The
father of this family was a leader in community affairs, taking an active part in
all movements and measures instituted to promote the general welfare.
Albert J. Clark was reared on the home farm in Willamstown township and
attended the public schools in the acquirement of an education. When a youth of
eighteen he started out as an agriculturist on his own account, cultivating rented
land for five years. On the expiration of that period he purchased the old home-
stead of sixty acres which his father had procured from the government. From
time to time he has augmented his holdings by additional purchase and now owns
about six hundred acres of land, one hundred and sixty acres of which comprise
his home place. He has made many substantial improvements on the property,
erecting a handsome brick residence and barns and also a large fruit and vegetable
storage house. His time and energies are largely devoted to general farming but
he makes a specialty of the raising of small fruit and vegetables and does his own
packing and shipping, having shipped over six thousand crates of strawberries in
1912. He operates a factory for the manufacture of boxes and likewise has a
pickle and kraut factory on his place, doing an extensive business in that connec-
tion. About fifty acres of his land is planted to small fruit and includes an
orchard. He furnishes steady employment to about twenty-five people through-
out the year and during the busy season requires the services of about three hun-
dred hands. He is now equipping one of his farms for the purpose of breeding
pure Holstein cattle, having already built barns thereon. His operations are ex-
tensive and important and he is widely recognized as one of the most prosperous
agriculturists and leading citizens of the community.
On the 29th of December, 1886, -Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss
Theresa Bachhubcr, a daughter of Emron and Katharine (Bauer) Bachhuber.
Her father emigrated to this country from Germany in an early day, locating first
near St. Lawrence, Wisconsin, and later in Milwaukee, while subsequently he
came to Dodge county. He was first engaged in business as a brewer but after-
ward conducted a saddlery shop in Mayville. His demise occurred on the 8th of
October, 1908, but his wife is still living. They were the parents of ten children,
as follows : Mrs. Theresa Clark ; John, who is a resident of Mayville ; Anna, the
wife of Anton Welsch, of Mayville; Barbara, the wife of Tony Jansa, of May-
ville; Joseph, Frank, Emron and Martin, all of whom are residents of Mayville;
Katharine, the wife of Paul Rohlinger, of Milwaukee; and Lawrence, living in
Mayville, Wisconsin, Mr. and Mrs. Clark have three children, namely : Leon G.,
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
359
who is a graduate of the Mayville high school and now assists his father ; Ray J.,
at home ; and Amasa A., who is attending school. Fraternally Mr. Clark is identi-
fied with the Masons, being a worthy exemplar of the craft. His life has been one
of intense activity, crowned with deserved success, and his record may well serve
as a source of inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished when
ability is coupled with determination. He is widely and favorably known in the
county where his entire life has been spent and his record therefore cannot fail
to prove of interest to many of our readers.
HANS H. FORKMANN.
Hans H. Forkmann, proprietor and editor of the Dodge County Banner, has
been a resident of Mayville for twenty-one years, during the greater portion of
which time he has been identified with the local high school as teacher of Latin
and German. He is one of the estimable citizens Germany has furnished Dodge
county, his birth having occurred in Wuerzburg, Bavaria, on the 5th of April,
1868. His parents were Robert and Helen (Koepplinger) Forkmann, the father
a native of Burgdorf , Switzerland, and the mother of Kissingen, Bavaria. After
the completion of his education, which was acquired in the universities of Wuerz-
burg and Munich, Robert Forkmann became a member of the faculty of the
former institution with which he was identified during the remainder of his active
life. He made several journeys to the United States to see his son, his last visit
being made in 1906, on which occasion he was taken ill and passed away in the
hospital in Milwaukee on September 13, of the same year. He had long survived
the mother, whose death occurred on September 13, 1895. They were the parents
of three children, but the son is the only member of the family to have located in
America, the two daughters always having resided in their native land.
The boyhood and youth of Hans H. Forkmann were passed amid the scholarly
environment of an old university town, the influence of which was further
enhanced by the fact of his father being a professor, their social circle being
entirely composed of people of culture and learning. After completing the course
of the University of Wuerzburg, he was sent to Munich, where he was awarded
the degree of LL. D. with the class of 1891. Along with his classical studies he
had imbibed a spirit of democracy, which made him cherish the idea of becoming
a citizen of the greatest republic on earth. Therefore, soon after leaving the
university he took passage for the United States. He arrived in New York on
the 7th of March, 1891, and the day following he made application to become a
citizen of the United States. Continuing his journey westward, he located in Mil-
waukee and for some six months thereafter was a member of the Herold staff,
one of the leading German papers of that city. During that period he made
application for the position of Latin and German teacher in the Mayville high
school, to which he was appointed, beginning his duties in September, 1891. He
served in this capacity with excellent satisfaction for sixteen years, his pupils
being among the most thoroughly instructed and maintaining a higher average
standard of scholarship than was attained by almost any other school in the state
at that time. In 1907, Mr. Forkmann resigned his position and purchased the plant
360
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of the E. Schwartz Printing Company, publishers of the Dodge County Banner.
This paper was founded in April 6, 1895, and is one of the leading democrat
journals in this section. When Mr. Forkmann took possession of the plant in
1907 the subscription list consisted of but nine hundred names, but it has since
been increased until it numbers twenty-seven hundred which fact most substan-
tially evidences his fitness and general qualifications as an editor and man of
business.
On the 16th of June, 1893, Mr. Forkmann was united in marriage to Miss
Ottilie Ruedebusch, a daughter of H. B. and Albertine (Kaetel) Ruedebusch.
The father, who came to the United States on the 2d of July, i860, was one of
the pioneer business men of Mayville, where he conducted a hardware establish-
ment until 1886. In the latter year he disposed of his interests here and removed
with his family to Milwaukee. Two years later he returned to Mayville and
resumed his connection with its commercial activities as one of the stockholders
in a local furniture factory. He was identified with this industry until 1903, when
he retired from active life and is now spending his latter ye^rs in well earned rest.
In common with the majority of his countrymen he has always been very fond of
music and now employs his leisure time in the manufacture of violins and cellos,
in which he takes great delight. The mother, who was a child of only ten years
when she came to this country in 1856 with her parents, who located at Theresa,
passed away on the 29th of December, 1873. Of the four children born to this
worthy couple but two are now living.
Mr. Forkmann has enjoyed the full rights of citizenship since the 8th of
March, 1896, exactly five years and one day after his arrival in America. In his
political views he is a democrat but he has never been connected with the official
life of the community, although he is a wide-awake, public-spirited citizen and
takes an active interest in the welfare of the town and strives to promote its
interest in every possible way. Fraternally he is identified with Vesper Lodge,
No. 62, F. & A. M., and various German societies throughout the state. Although
in his ideas and views he is intensely American and is absolutely loyal to the
United States and its institutions, Mr. Forkmann yet finds much to commend and
admire in the land of his nativity and his fellow countrymen. He has never had
reason to regret transferring his allegiance to this government, however, as he has
here found the opportunities he sought and has made many stanch friends, who
accord him the esteem and respect ever commanded by ambitious men of upright
motives and honorable methods.
JOHN STEGER.
John Steger, who as president of the John Steger Company has been en-
gaged in the brewery business in Mayville for more than thirty years, is one of
Dodge county's enterprising and capable native sons. His natal day was the
third of September, a 854, and he is a son of George and Margaret (Krcbclt)
Steger, both natives of Germany. The father emigrated to the United States
in 1846 with Dodge county as his destination. He was an agriculturist and soon
after his arrival located in Theresa township, where he acquired seventy acres
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
361
of land. The further cultivation and improvement of this place engaged his
attention until his death, which occurred in the year 1871 or 1872. The mother
survived him for many years, her death taking place in 1908. Our subject is
third in order of birth in a family of six children.
Reared at home, John Steger obtained his education in the district and
Catholic parochial schools of this county. When old enough to begin fitting
himself for a career he resolved to become a brewer, and at the age of four-
teen years laid aside his schoolbooks and began qualifying for his chosen voca-
tion as an apprentice of John Quast, proprietor of the Theresa Brewery. He-
was there employed for six or seven years, during which time he became thor-
oughly familiar with the various details of the industry. At the expiration of
that time he became identified with the Gebhard " Weber Brewery Company.
The next year he came to Mayville, where for two years he followed another
line of work and then went to Ripon and worked for the John Haas Brewery
Company. In another two years he again took up his residence in Mayville,
and here in 1881 in partnership with Charles Gerlach he purchased the brewery
of the Charles Crossing Company, and has been operating this plant until 1888,
when Mr. Gerlach sold his interest to Henry Boehmer, who has since been con-
nected with Mr. Steger, Mr. Steger being president and manager, and Mr.
Boehmer, vice president. They are both capable men in their line and are
doing a good business. They manufacture various kinds of beer, all of a good
quality, which they ship throughout this section of the state.
On the 17th of October, 1882, Mr. Steger was united in marriage to Miss
Mary Boehmer, a daughter of Henry and Margaret Boehmer. The mother is
deceased but the family is still living. Three children have been born of this
marriage; Hattie, the wife of John Hollenstein, Jr., of the wagon works, and
the mother of three children ; and Josephine and Henry, both of whom are at
home.
The family are communicants of the Roman Catholic church, and frater-
nally the father is affiliated with the Maccabees. Mr. Steger is one of the sub-
stantial citizens of Mayville, in the progress and development of which he has
taken an active interest during the thirty years of his connection with its busi-
ness interests.
LOUIS E. KRONITZ.
Louis E. Kronitz is the proprietor of the Buena Vista Hotel, a well kept
and modern hostlery, at the corner of Fourth and Jones streets, Watertown,
and his able management of its affairs has placed him among the leading busi-
ness men of the city. He was born in Portland township, Jefferson county,
February 2, 1873, a son of Frederick and Amelia (Gorder) Kronitz, the former
a native of Dodge county and the latter of Germany. The father of our sub-
iect was reared upon a farm and was identified with agricultural interests in
Portland and Lebanon townships for many years. In the latter section he
owned one hundred and twenty acres of land, which he improved and developed
along systematic and practical lines, making his farm one of the finest in the
362
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
township. When he abandoned agricultural pursuits he moved to Watertown
and bought the Washington Hotel, which he operated until 1904, when he re-
tired. He makes his home in Watertown. His wife came to America with her
parents when she was only a year old and grew to womanhood in Dodge county.
In their family were four children : Albert, who died in infancy ; Louis E., of
this review ; Ida, the widow of Otto H. Novack, of Watertown ; and Henry W.,
proprietor of the Washington Hotel in Watertown.
Louis E. Kronitz was a small boy when his parents moved to Watertown
and consequently his education was begun in the public schools of this city.
When he had completed the high school course he entered the Northwestern
College and attended that institution for one year. After laying aside his books
he learned the shoemaker's trade but never followed it. He enlisted as a musi-
cian in the Seventh Regiment, United States Army, and was stationed with his
company at Fort Logan, Colorado, and served for three months. At the end
of that time he was discharged for disability. Returning to Watertown, he
went to Clyman and there bought a hotel and saloon, which he conducted for
thirteen years, gaining distinct success by his ability. When he sold out his
holdings in Clyman he bought the Buena Vista Hotel in Watertown, which he
is conducting at the present time. Long familiarity with the details of hotel
management and a distinct business ability have made him successful in the
direction of this enterprise. He is active and progressive and has made good
use of his many opportunities with the result that he is ranked among the sub-
stantial and important men of Watertown.
On the 8th of April, 1896, Mr. Kronitz married Miss Ida Hose, a daughter
of Henry and Maria Hose, natives of Germany and early settlers in Jefferson
county. The father was a soldier in the Civil war and after his discharge farmed
in Wisconsin for a number of years, dying in Jefferson county at the age of
eighty-two. His wife passed away when she was eighty-four years of age.
They had six children, Fred, Henry, Margaret, Ida, Emma, and a child who died
in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Kronitz became the parents of two children:
Gretchen ; and Ada, who died when she was five years of age. The family are
members of St Mark's Lutheran church.
Mr. Kronitz is a democrat but is not active in political circles. He gives
most of his time to the management of his hotel, his only other business interest
being his connection with the Citizens & Farmers Bank. He deserves great
credit for what he has accomplished during his connection with business inter-
ests in Watertown and his work has had its influence upon the growth of com-
mercial activity of the city.
HON. EUGENE O'CONNOR.
Seventy years' residence in Dodge county makes Eugene O'Connor one of
its oldest citizens, while his life work entitles him to the respect, confidence and
honor of his fellowmen. He now lives on section 11, in the town of Emmet,
and was but four years of age when brought to Dodge county, his birth having
occurred in South Brookfield, Massachusetts, on the 25th of August, 1838. His
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
365
father, Daniel O'Connor, was born and reared in Ireland and was there married.
In 1831 he removed westward to the new world, settling first in Massachusetts,
where he remained for eight or nine years. For a time he rented land and en-
gaged in farming in that district. Subsequently he removed northward to Wis-,
consin, settling in Dodge county in 1842. The whole countryside was an unbroken
wilderness, for the seeds of civilization had scarcely been planted in this district
at the time. Mr. O'Connor purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land that
was covered with a native growth of timber and after making a little clearing he
built a log house, in which he lived for a number of years. Gradually he further
cleared and developed the place and transformed it into a good farm. He bought
more land from time to time and became owner of two hundred and forty acres,
constituting a rich and well developed tract, upon which he reared his family.
He lived a long and useful life and died at the ripe old age of ninety-nine years
and six months, passing away in July, 1882. He had long survived his wife,
who died in 1865.
Eugene O'Connor is one of a family of four sons and two daughters, all of
whom reached adult age. Of this family one son, Daniel O'Connor, is now living
in the state of Washington, while a sister, unmarried, makes her home with her
brother, Eugene. These three are the only surviving members of the family of
Daniel O'Connor.
Brought to Wisconsin when but four years of age, Eugene O'Connor was
reared upon the old homestead farm and the experiences of frontier life early
became familiar to him. He was educated in the public schools and throughout
his life has been a reader and student, so that he has largely added to the knowl-
edge gained in the schoolroom. In fact he has kept abreast with the trend of
modern thought and progress and is conversant with the leading questions and
interests of the day.
On the 10th of November, 1870, Mr. O'Connor was united in marriage to
Miss Margaret Buckley, a daughter of Daniel Buckley, one of the pioneers of
Dodge county. Mrs. O'Connor was born and reared in this county and here
passed away on the 15th of September, 1907, her death being deeply deplored by
many who knew her. In their family were eleven children: Daniel; Eugene,
who is married and lives on a farm belonging to his father; John J., who is a
practicing dentist in the state of Washington ; Frank, residing on the old home-
stead; Edward, a machinist of Racine, Wisconsin; William and Charles, both at
home ; Mary, at home ; Margaret, who is engaged in teaching in Dodge county ;
Catherine, also a teacher; and a son, Charles Arthur, who died in infancy.
Following his marriage Eugene O'Connor took up his abode on the old home
farm, where also lived his brother, Jeremiah O'Connor, who died in 1884. As
time passed on, Eugene O'Connor added to his property and is now the owner
of two excellent farms, consisting of four hundred and forty acres. Both places
are well improved, being equipped with modern buildings, the latest machinery
and all those things which are elements of a mode! farm.
In his political views Mr. O'Connor is a democrat, interested in the success
of the party and always keeping well informed on the vital questions and issues
of the day. In former years he was quite active in politics and did effective serv-
ice for his party and as a public official. He was elected and served on the town
board and in 1868 was nominated for the general assembly. By choice of the
\d. n— 2 1
366
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
people, he became a member of the house and made an honorable record as one
of its active working members, serving on a number of important committees.
In 1876 he was elected clerk of the court and filled that position for two years.
He has since been chairman of the town board for a number of years and has
frequently been a delegate to both county and state conventions. Throughout
his life he has been actuated by a public-spirited devotion to the general good
and is known as one of the progressive and honored citizens of Dodge county,
where he has now lived for more than the Psalmist's allotted span of life of
three score years and ten.
One of the foremost educators in this section of Wisconsin is Lawrence S.
Keeley, principal of the Mayville high school, and a member of the executive
committee of the State Teachers Association, of which organization he was
formerly president. Practically his entire life has been passed in Dodge county,
his birth having occurred at Fox Lake, on the 7th of February, 1 858. He is of
Irish extraction, his parents, Michael and Katherine (Kenney) Keeley having
been born and reared in County Galway, Ireland. The father, who was a farmer
came to the United States in 1847, spending the first two or three years of his
residence in this country in the state of New York, where he was married. In
1851, together with his young wife he came to Dodge county, locating in Fox
Lake township, where he purchased a hundred and twenty acres of timber land.
Here they lived in the primitive manner prevalent in every frontier country,
their residence being a crude log cabin similar to those of the other pioneers
of that period. Their means were limited, but they possessed an abundance
of energy and determination and bore uncomplainingly the many hardships and
privations, which would have hopelessly discouraged people of less persistence
and resolution of purpose. Mr. Keeley diligently applied himself to the further
improvement and development of his farm during the remainder of his active
life, his death here occurring on the 4th of December, 1886. He was seventy-eight
at the time of his demise, while the mother who survived him until the 10th of
July, 1907, had attained the venerable age of eighty-four when she passed
away. To them were born five children, our subject being the third in order of
birth.
The early life of Lawrence S. Keeley was in every respect similar to those
of other pioneer youths of Wisconsin. Reared on a farm, he began his educa-
tion naturally, in the district schools, which he attended until he was seventeen
years of age. The succeeding two years he devoted to teaching, subsequently
continuing his education in the graded schools of Randolph and the Wisconsin
Academy at Fox Lake, of which he became a student in 1878. Later he at-
tended the Wisconsin University for a time, and also the Normal School at
Platteville, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1882.
Immediately thereafter he began teaching in the schools of Highland, this state,
going from there to Fox Lake, where he remained for six years in the capacity
of principal. He gave most efficient service in this connection, fuundin? the
LAWRENCE S. KEELEY.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
867
high school, while it was largely due to his efforts that a new school building
was erected at that time. In 1890, he resigned his position there to accept the
principalship of the Mayville high school, where he has served continuously ever
since with the exception of about eighteen months. As he is ambitious and has
strong scholarly instincts,. Mr. Keeley has always utilized his leisure time to
good advantage, and during the early years as teacher he began the study of
law, being admitted to the state bar in 1887. He was never actively identified
with the profession until 1897, however, when he resigned his position as prin-
cipal of the high school and engaged in the practice of law with Frank Law-
rence. Legal affairs claimed his undivided attention for a year and a half there-
after, at the expiration of which time he yielded to the earnest solicitation of
the local school board to complete an unexpired term as high school principal,
and has ever since retained this position. While he gave promise of becoming
a clever and efficient representative of the bar, without doubt Mr. Keeley's
larger field of usefulness has been found in the schoolroom. His varied career
and early struggles in obtaining an education, together with the long days of
toil spent in the fields of the home farm during his boyhood enable him to enter
into the aims and hopes of the ambitious lad with that broad, human under-
standing and appreciation characteristic of the self-made man. The greater
part of his education has been self-acquired and to this fact is largely attributable
the breadth of view and independence of thought he has ever manifested in his
work. A practical man, Mr. Keeley has made a careful study of the needs of
the average American boy and girl, and so far as lies within his power has
adapted the curriculum of his school to meet their requirements. He strongly
advocates the training of the hand as well as the mind, and believes in fitting
every youth and maid to become a useful member of society. With this pur-
pose in view there has been added to the regular course of the Mayville high
school classes in manual training and domestic science, the results of which are
readily recognizable in the greater resourcefulness and self-reliance of the
young people. Although he has always lived in the quiet, unobtrusive manner of
the man with a mission to perform, Mr. Keeley has achieved much more than
a local reputation among the educators of the state. He has long been identified
with the Wisconsin State Teachers Association and in 1910 was elected vice
president of the organization. The next year he succeeded Mr. Parlin as presi-
dent and he is now a member of the executive committee of the association,
and he is also a state conductor of teachers* institutes. His field of usefulness
has not stopped with the schoolroom but has extended into the business world
and he was one of the organizers of the State Bank of Mayville and is now sec-
retary of its board of directors. He is also a member of the board of directors
of the Mayville Mutual Fire Insurance Company, a thriving local enterprise.
In this city on the 9th of August, 1892, Mr. Keeley was united in marriage
to Miss Bertha Langenbach, a native of Mayville and a daughter of John and
Maria Langenbach, both of whom arc still living, the father at the venerable
age of eighty-two and the mother at seventy-five years. They were born and
reared in Germany but came to America in early life, locating in Dodge county
during the pioneer period. For many years the father conducted a hotel at
Theresa, this state, but he is now living retired in Mayville. To Mr. and Mrs.
Digitized by LaOOQle
368
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Kceley have been born four children: Margaret, who has graduated from the
high school ; and Clarence, Lawrence and Helen.
The family are communicants of the Roman Catholic church and Mr. Keeley
is a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and Knights of Columbus. As
a citizen as well as an instructor he is broad-minded and progressive and is
one of the active workers and enthusiastic members of the Business Men's
Club, earnestly indorsing its various movements and cooperating in forwarding
the town's development in every possible manner. A residence in Mayvillc
covering a period of more than twenty years, during which time he has been
prominently identified with the life of the community as the incumbent of a
most difficult position, being subject to the criticism and comment of both old
and young, interested and disinterested, has shown Mr. Keeley to possess the
loyalty, singleness of purpose and general excellence of character desirable in a
man who is directing the development and training of the young.
Herman J. Thielke is one of the enterprising citizens of Mayville, where he
engages in the lumber and insurance business and also owns and operates a farm
of a hundred and twenty-three acres. He was born in Huelsburg, Wisconsin,
on the 27th of July, 1867, and is a son of August and Margaret (Huels)
Thielke. The father, who is engaged in the general mercantile business in
Huelsburg, was born in Prussia on the 3d of February, 1830. There he was
also reared and educated and subsequently learned the brewer's trade. He came
to America ih 1854, first locating in Theresa, where he engaged in farming for
eight years. At the expiration of that time he removed to Huelsburg, and here
he purchased a brewery and farm, which he likewise operated for eight years.
Selling -his brewery, he subsequently purchased the general mercantile business
of J. Huels, which he is still conducting. He is one of the substantial men of
the town and in addition to his other interests owns a farm of a hundred and
seventy-eight acres in Herman township. Mr. and Mrs. Thielke are the parents
of ten children, our subject being the fifth in order of birth. They are members
of the German Lutheran church and Mr. Thielke votes the democratic ticket.
Dodge county has always been the home of Herman J. Thieke, who passed
his boyhood in very much the same manner as other lads who were reared in
this section of Wisconsin at that period. He was educated in the district
schools and worked on his father's farm, thus acquiring a thorough knowledge
of the duties and responsibilities of the agriculturist, and later assisted in the
store. In 1892 he took the agency of the Cameron & Cameron Company, a
lumber concern of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Two years later he purchased their
local business, which he successfully conducted until 1900, when he sold it to
Denison, Liver & Company of Hartford. Wisconsin. Three years later he
engaged in the fire insurance business, obtaining the agency of several reputable
companies with which he is still identified. In 1906, he still further extended
the scope of his activities by again purchasing the lumber business which he had
formerly conducted. Mr. Thielke is also managing his farm of a hundred and
HERMAN J. THIELKE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
369
twenty-three acres, his energies largely being devoted to the raising of Holstein
cattle and Poland China hogs, in both of which lines he is meeting with a good
measure of success.
On the 14th of February, 1893, Mr. Thielke was united in marriage to Miss
Catherine Hamm, a native of Kohlville, Washington county, this state, and a
daughter of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Brissell) Hamm. The father, who was
engaged in the general mercantile business and farming at Kohlville, passed
away in 191 1. Mr. and Mrs. Thielke have one child, Adela, who is living at
home.
The family are members of the Lutheran church, and Mr. Thielke gives his
political allegiance to the democratic party. He is one of the substantial
citizens of the town and one of its foremost business men, taking an active
interest in forwarding various local industries. He owns stock in the Mayville
Canning Company, State Bank of Mayville, the Mexican Copper & Gold Mines
Company, and the Old Line Life Insurance Company, all thriving and prosper-
ous enterprises. Descended from well known pioneer settlers, Mr. Thielke is
widely known in this vicinity, and enjoys the regard of a large circle of friends,
many of whom were comrades of his boyhood.
CULVER E. HOOKER.
Culver E. Hooker is one of the well known citizens of Waupun, Wisconsin,
and has the distinction of being in years of service the oldest law practitioner
in that city. He was born in Waupun, February 10, 1855, and is a son of Eli
and Catherine R. (Sharp) Hooker. The father wa.s a native of New York
and the mother of Ohio. They celebrated their wedding in Milwaukee and
later established their home in Fond du Lac. Both were of English descent. The
founder of the Hooker family in America, of which our subject is descended,
was Thomas. Hooker, who settled in Connecticut in early colonial times and was
a member of the committee that drafted the constitution of Connecticut, which
was used as a model at the time of the drafting of the constitution of the United
States. The father of C. E. Hooker was by profession a lawyer and settled in
Waupun in the early '40s and was the first of his profession to engage in
Waupun in the general practice of law. He was actively associated with the
republican party and was influential in its local organization. He continued
in the practice of his profession in Waupun until 1889. His wife died in Janu-
ary, 1890. Eli Hooker was a Methodist in religious faith, while his wife was
a member of the Baptist church. They were the parents of four children,
as follows: Mrs. Viola A. Bell, who is a resident of Waupun; Culver E., of
this review; Rosa, who passed away at the age of seven years; and Lillian K.,
who gave her hand in marriage to Burr W. Davis.
Culver E. Hooker was reared at home and received his early education in
the public school in Waupun. After completing his elementary course of
studies he was later a student of Lawrence University at Appleton, Wisconsin,
after which he attended the University of Wisconsin at Madison, from which
he was graduated with the degree of A. B., in the class of 1878. He read law
370
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
under his father and was admitted to the Wisconsin bar in 1880, after which
he at once established himself in the general practice of law in Waupun. He
was a member of the state assembly in 1886 and has been a member of the county
board for thirty-one years. He has also been city attorney of Waupun for the
past fifteen years and -the public administrator of Dodge county for four years.
Mr. Hooker was united in marriage in 1881 to Miss Josephine L. Wheeler,
of Waupun. She is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George F. Wheeler, her father
being one of the early pioneers of Dodge county and a man prominent in po-
litical affairs in his part of the state. To Mr. and Mrs. Hooker two children
were born, one of whom died in infancy, while the other met death in a rail-
road accident. The mother of this family died in January, 1890, and our sub-
ject was married in April, 1892, to Miss Mary A. Wight, of Waupun. She is
a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander P. Wight. Mr. Wight was engaged in
farming and later took up the implement business, in which he continued until
retiring from active life. He and his wife were among the early pioneers of
Dodge county. Mr. and Mrs. Hooker arc the parents of one child, Edward
Wight, aged thirteen.
Mr. Hooker is a member of the Masonic blue lodge, of which he has been
master, and has also been high priest of Chapter No. 48, at Waupun, for thir-
teen years and also belongs to the Commandery No. 5, of Fond du Lac. Mrs.
Hooker is a member of the Congregational church. Mr. Hooker is known in
legal circles in Wisconsin as one of the leading men of his profession and he is a
man of influence and held in high esteem by the citizens of the city and county
in which he lives.
HERMAN PAUTSCH.
Herman Pautsch, the owner of a well improved and productive farm of
one hundred and sixty acres in Chester township, has won success in its care-
ful and systematic operation. His birth occurred in that township on the 12th
of October, 1874, his father being Carl Pautsch, a sketch of whom appears on
another page of this work. He attended the public schools in the acquirement
of an education and subsequently worked on his father's farm until twenty-two
years of age. At that time he learned the blacksmith's trade, working at that
occupation in Juneau for about four years. Subsequently he spent two years in
the employ of L. C. Pautsch and about 1902 rented a tract of one hundred and
sixty acres in Chester township, cultivating the land for a period of eight
years. In 1910 he purchased the property and it has since remained in his pos-
session. He devotes his attention to the pursuits of farming and dairying and
has met with success in both connections. He has erected a new residence and
repaired the other buildings and has a model farming property.
In 1896 Mr. Pautsch was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Schwantcs.
who was born in Wausau, Wisconsin, on the 30th of January, 1878, her parents
being Albert and Corlena (Radant) Schwantes. the former a native of Theresa
township, this county. Carl Schwantes, the paternal grandfather of Mrs.
Pautsch, was born in Pommern, Germany, and emigrated to the United States
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
871
in 1846, while the following year he located in Theresa township, Dodge
county, Wisconsin. He had eleven children, of whom Albert Schwantes was the
third son born. Mr. and Mrs. Albert Schwantes, who are still living, were the
parents of six children, four of whom died in early life. The two surviving
are as follows : Emma, who is still under the parental roof ; and Mrs. Louisa
Pautsch. Our subject and his wife have seven children, namely: Arnold, Carl,
Elda, Orris, Edna, Ena and Herman, Jr. The members of the family attend the
services of Immanuel's Lutheran church at Burnett. Mr. Pautsch has always
lived in this county and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow towns-
men in a degree that can only be won by a life of probity, while his traits of
character have won him a wide circle of warm friends.
JACOB MUELLER.
Jacob Mueller has for twenty-eight years been the proprietor and editor of
the Dodge County Pionier, one of the best known and most popular German
publications in this section of the state. He is a native of Wisconsin, his birth
having occurred in Milwaukee on the 4th of November, 1849, and a son of
George and Anna (Poellert) Mueller. The parents were born, reared and mar-
ried in the town of Hersbruck, Bavaria, Germany, whence they emigrated to the
United States in the spring' of 1849, locating in Milwaukee, where the father,
who was a carpenter and woodturner, diligently plied his trades. He was one
of the many victims of the cholera scourge which swept through this state in
1853, his death occurring just four years after he settled in America. He left
his widow and one son, Jacob Mueller. The mother, who celebrated the eighty-
sixth anniversary of her birth on October 24, 1912, still resides in Milwaukee.
The only child of a widow in limited circumstances, Jacob Mueller, early as-
sumed the duties of manhood by becoming self-supporting. His education was
acquired in the German parochial and public schools of his native city, which
he attended until he was a youth of thirteen years. He then started out to make
his own way in the world and during the succeeding two years followed such
employment as usually falls to the lot of an inexperienced lad. On July 16,
1865, he obtained a place as apprentice on the Milwaukee Herold, being identified
with this office for eight years. Having decided to become a newspaper man, he
not onlv mastered the compositor's trade but acquired a thorough knowledge of
the business generally, with the firm resolution of some time having a paper of
his own. He resigned his position with the Herold on the 14th of June, 1873,
and on June 16, of the same year, became a compositor on the Germania, which
paper started business at that time and which gave employment to three other
compositors. He was the first one to set the type for the first copy of this paper,
now one of the best known German publications in Wisconsin. Mr. Mueller
remained a member of their force until June 30, 1884. On the second day of
the month following he came to Mayville and took possession of the "Dodge
County Pionier" as sole proprietor. This paper was founded on the 10th of
March, 1876, by Henry Spiering, who edited it for a time and then sold it. Dur-
ing the intervening years it passed through various hands, always reverting to
372
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. Spiering until purchased by Mr. Mueller. It was published weekly until
1894, since which time it has been issued semi-weekly, the general popularity
and size of the publication warranting this change. It is a clean, wholesome,
newsy sheet of democratic political principles, its columns stanchly indorsing
the candidates and platforms of this party. Mr. Mueller is a man of high
standards of citizenship and progressive ideas as he plainly manifests through
the medium of his editorials, and can be depended upon to give his support to
every progressive movement he feels will tend to promote the development of
the town or advance the welfare of its residents. He fully appreciates the power
of the press and exercises his influence in support of every worthy movement,
and being a man of pronounced ideas and independent views expresses himself
clearly and forcibly. Absolutely fearless, he is as ready to denounce evil as
commend good, never leaving any doubt in the minds of his readers as to his
attitude on a question affecting the interest or welfare of the community.
At Milwaukee on the 5th of June, 1875, Mr. Mueller was married to Miss
Anna Scherer, the ceremony being performed by the Rev. Johann Bading. Mrs.
Mueller is a daughter of Adam and Friederike Scherer, natives of Germany, who
came to America in 185 1 or 1852, locating in Milwaukee where their daughter was
born March 19, 1855. The father was a shoemaker by trade and also a musician
of more than average ability. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Mueller, of whom four died in infancy. The two following are living : Conrad,
who is married and works for his father; and Emma, the wife of Fred Braun, a
native of Germany, by whom she has had two children, the elder a son having
died and Florence, whose birth occurred on January 21, 1906. They are residing
in Mayville, Wisconsin.
In religious faith the family are Lutherans and belong to the German church
of that denomination, and Mr. Mueller votes the democratic ticket. He has met
with very good success in his business undertakings and in addition to his other
interests owns and conducts the Beaumont Hotel, the best hostelry in the town.
Mr. Mueller is one of the widely known and highly esteemed residents of the
community and has many stanch friends among both the German and American
citi«ens of Dodge county.
Eugene Moldenhauer owns and operates one hundred and fourteen acres of
land on section 26, Lebanon township, the homestead upon which he was born
and upon which his entire life has been spent. I-ong familiarity, early experience
and special training have made him an able and successful farmer and are the
foundation of an efficiency which combined with well directed labor have made
his farm a model agricultural property. He was born the 17th of March, 1881,
a son of August and Dina (Wagner) Moldenhauer, natives of Dodge county of
German parentage. They are residing in Watertown, the father having reached
his sixty-first year and the mother her fifty-sixth. They have two children:
Laura, who married John Woltmann, a farmer in Lebanon township: and
Eugene, of this review.
EUGENE MOLDENHAUER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
373
Eugene Moldenhauer was educated in the public schools of his native sec-
tion and has always lived upon the homestead he is now operating. He does
general farming and stock-raising, and is making a specialty of breeding pure-
blooded Holstein cattle and Chester White hogs. He has a model and sanitary
dairy, keeping twelve cows for this purpose and selling his milk to a neighboring
cheese factory. Seventy acres of his land are in hay and grain, all of which he
feeds to his stock with the exception of his barley which he sells. He has greatly
improved the homestead since he assumed its management and most of the barns
and outbuildings were erected by him. The principal barn was built in 1903 and
is one hundred feet long by forty feet wide and equipped with modern acces-
sories. Mr. Moldenhauer resides in a comfortable brick house, erected in his
father's time. He has many friends in this section where he has resided since
his birth.
In 1903 Mr. Moldenhauer was united in marriage to Miss Emma Woltmann, a
daughter of William and Louisa (Wagner) Woltmann, who were among the early
settlers in Dodge county, coming to this section from Germany. They are re-
siding in Watertown. Mrs. Moldenhauer was born November It, 1878, and
lived at home until her marriage. She and her husband have two children, Elmer
and Alice, who live at home.
Mr. Moldenhauer is a democrat and has served for two years as chairman of
Lebanon township. He and his family belong to the Immanuel Evangelical
Lutheran church. Most of his time and attention are given to the improvement
and development of his farm. His agricultural labors are carried on along pro-
gressive lines and, being practical, have resulted in a model farm, every depart-
ment of which is intelligently managed and in excellent condition. Mr. Molden-
hauer has devoted the activities of his life to one thing and in consequence has
done that thing well, his fine property standing as an evidence of his ability and
industry.
JACOB KOLL.
Jacob Koll is one of the well known and substantial citizens of Theresa Sta-
tion, where he is engaged in the operation of a large grain elevator and in the
buying and selling of corn, grain and seeds. He is interested in the commercial
progress of the village where he has resided since he was twenty-three years of
age and is prominent and active in the management of severaj local enterprises.
He was born in Theresa township, April 3, 1859, a son of Nicholas and Elizabeth
(Bodden) Koll, natives of Germany. The father crossed the Atlantic to America
in 1848 and settled in Herman township, where he purchased the first farm in
the district. Upon this he resided until 1851, coming in that year to Theresa
township, where he bought eighty acres of land and began its improvement.
He added to his holdings from time to time and at the time of his death, which
occurred in 1886, he owned one hundred and eighty acres of highly developed
and productive land. After his demise his wife sold part of the farm, retain-
ing only one hundred and thirty-eight acres. She also was born in Germany and
374
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
came to America when she was thirteen years of age, settling in Wisconsin with
her parents in 1847. She is still residing in Theresa township.
Jacob Koll is the third in a family of eleven children. He was educated in the
district and parochial schools of his native section and spent his childhood upon
his father's farm. When he was twenty-three years of age he obtained a position
in the grain elevator at Theresa Station and has since been identified with that
enterprise. In the year 1890 he purchased the business and has since conducted
it independently. He also deals in corn, seeds and grain and has built up a
steadily increasing trade in these commodities.
In 1887 Mr. Koll was united in marriage to Miss Mary Meixberger, a daugh-
ter of Joseph Meixberger, who was born in Germany and who came to America
at an early date. He was a wagon maker by trade and followed this line of occu-
pation until his death, which occurred in 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Koll have six
children: Orlando, who is cashier of a bank at St. Cloud, Fond du Lac county,
and who is married and has one child ; Alphonse, who is a graduate of Marquette
College and who is engaged in the practice of dentistry at Theresa; and Leo,
Edmund, Josephine and Marie, all of whom reside at home.
Mr. Koll served as town clerk for five years. He holds stock in a cement
block factory at Theresa and is interested in the Allenton State bank. The up-
right and honorable standards by which he directs his life and the energy and
ability which mark his business ability have gained him a high place in the re-
gard of his fellow citizens as a native son whose activities have been useful and
valuable.
EDWARD A. MARSH.
Edward A. Marsh is one of the highly respected citizens of Waupun, Wis-
consin, of which city he has been a resident since 1901. He is the owner of one
of the highly developed farms of Dodge county which he operates under lease,
and makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred Holstein cattle. He was born
February 7, 1864, in Chester township, Dodge county, and is a son of Silas A.
and Lucy Ann (Davenport) Marsh, the former a native of St. Albans, Ver-
mont, and the latter of Homer, Cortland county, New York. The father re-
moved from his native state, settling in Waukesha county, Wisconsin, in 1839,
where he remained for some time and later, in 1844, he established his home
in Dodge county, where he continued to live until 1879. Silas A. Marsh was
united in marriage to Miss Lucy Ann Davenport in Wisconsin, and they became
the parents of four sons : Charles, Damon and William, all of whom are de-
ceased; and Edward A., who is the subject of this review. The mother of this
family was of Scotch descent and died in Waupun in 1904.
Edward A. Marsh was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools. He remained under the parental roof and in later life took
charge of his father's farm, on which he continued to reside until 1901. In
that year he rented the old homestead which he now owns and removed to
Waupun, where he has since continued to reside, having retired from ac-
tive work. In 1908 he purchased stock in the National Bank of Waupun, after
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
375
which he was elected to the board of directors of that financial institution and
has since continued to serve in that capacity. He is also one of the stockholders
in the Palma Shoe Company of Waupun.
Mr. Marsh was united in marriage Octob * II, 1893, to Miss Edith Belle
Deverell of Dodge county. She is a daughter 01 William and Eliza Deverell,
who were among the early settlers of Dodge county and later removed to Min-
nesota, where the birth of Mrs. Marsh occurred. Mr. and Mrs. Marsh became
the parents of three children, Hannah L., Florence E. and Edward T. Mr.
Marsh gives his political support to the republican party, and has served on the
board of supervisors and also for several terms has been treasurer of the town-
ship in which he lives. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and has passed
through all the chairs. He and Mrs. Marsh are communicants of the Congre-
gational church. Mr. Marsh is one of the well known and valued citizens of
Dodge county where, for many years, he has been successful in the conduct of
his stock farm, making a specialty of raising Holstein cattle. He is always to be
relied upon to give his assistance to the advancement of any public measure
intended to improve the condition of people in his county and state.
EDWARD A. BARTSCH.
Edward A. Bartsch, who is engaged in the general mercantile business, has
been identified with commercial interests in Mayville since 1904, with the excep-
tion of two years. His birth occurred here on the 17th of March, 1875, his parents
being Charles A. and Mary (Ende) Bartsch, both natives of Germany. The
father was only a child when he came to America with his parents, who located in
Dodge county in 1852. The paternal grandfather, Ernest Bartsch, was one of
the pioneer farmers of this section, where he passed away a few years after his
arrival. The education of Charles A. Bartsch was obtained in the schools of his
home district and those of Mayville. After leaving school he turned his attention
to agricultural pursuits for many years, subsequently becoming identified with
the Northwestern Iron Company of Mayville. He is still living, as is also the
mother, who was a girl of twelve or fifteen years when she came to the United
States. They became the parents of three children, the daughter, Anna, mar-
rying H. Bruder, who is engaged in the manufacture of cigars in Mayville.
Edward A. Bartsch passed his boyhood and early youth in practically the same
manner as other lads, who are reared in country communities. He received a
common-school education and, having resolved to devote himself to commercial
activities, after laying aside his text -books, entered the employ of William
Schwartz, for whom he clerked for seven years. He next became identified with
the firm of Lutz & Eldredge at Gardiner, Illinois, but two years later he returned
to Mayville, accepting a clerkship in the general mercantile store of H. Hamm.
His connection with this enterprise covered a period of six years, at the expira-
tion of which time, in 1904, he and his brother, C. F. Bartsch, purchased the busi-
ness. They were associated together under the firm name of Bartsch Brothers
for nearly five years, meeting with a goodly measure of success in the develop-
ment of their interests. Edward A. Bartsch next went into the commission busi-
376
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ness, as a member of the firm of Bartsch-Welsch Company, with which he is still
identified. Two years later he extended the scope of his activities by again engag-
ing in the general mercantile business in Mayville.
On the 16th of October, 1899, Mr. Bartsch was married to Miss Bertha Such,
a daughter of John and Amelia (Morenzine) Stach, natives of Germany. The
mother is still living but the father, who for many years was connected with
agricultural interests in Dodge county, is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Bartsch have
one child, Arthur.
Fraternally Mr. Bartsch is affiliated with the Mayville camp of the Modern
Woodmen of America; Mayville Lodge, No. 62, F. & A. M.; Horicon Chapter,
No. 24, R. A. M. ; and the Gesang Verein. In his political views he is republican
and is a member of the town council, of which he was president for three terms,
and is now chairman of the committee on streets and bridges. In matters of
citizenship as well as in those of business, Mr. Bartsch is enterprising and pro-
gressive, discharging his duties in any connection with the punctuality and deci-
sion characteristic of the man of well organized ideas and systematic methods.
EMIL P. DORNFELD.
For three generations members of the Dornfeld family have lived upon the
old homestead and have farmed its two hundred and fifteen acres, located on sec-
tions 21, 28, 29, and 35, Lebanon township. The present representative Emil P.
Dornfeld, has one of the finest tracts of land in this district and is in the front
rank of progressive agriculturists. He was born November 29, 1876, a son of
Fred and Louisa (Baer) Dornfeld, natives of Germany, who came to America in
1843, settling in Dodge county. The grandparents of our subject also located in
this section at an early date and resided here until their deaths. Fred Dornfeld
was one of the first farmers who purchased government lands in Lebanon town-
ship and he followed general farming upon the property thus acquired until his
death which occurred in 1890, when he was sixty-seven years of age. He is
buried in Lebanon cemetery. His wife makes her home with the subject of this
review.
Emil P. Dornfeld was educated in the public schools of his native section,
graduating from the Horicon high school in 1896. When he completed his studies
he returned to the homestead and has since resided upon this property. He does
general farming and stock-raising, milking twenty-five cows and selling his milk to
a neighboring cheese factory. One hundred and sixty acres of his farm is under
cultivation, the rest being marsh and woodland. He raises principally hay and
grain, all of which, with the exception of his barley, he feeds to his fine herd of
graded Holstein cattle and Chester White hogs. For his barley he obtains excel-
lent prices in the local markets, the quality of his grain being well known. He has
for some time specialized in the breeding of Belgium hares and has been unusually
successful in this branch of his activities. He is also interested in raising sugar
beets. His farm is modern and up-to-date in every particular, the improvements
having been made by the father of our subject and kept in repair by constant care
and supervision.
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On December 26, 1906, Mr. Dornfeld was united in marriage to Miss Helen
Braeger, a daughter of Angus and Tina (Ott) Braeger, early settlers in Dodge
county. The father died in 1902 when he was fifty-three years of age and the
mother makes her home in Watertown. They had six children, of whom Mrs.
Dornfeld was the third, born September 16, 1886. Our subject and his wife have
two children, Venita and Harold.
Mr. Dornfeld gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is at present
chairman of Lebanon township, in his first term of service. For three years he
was township clerk and did able and conscientious work in this capacity. He and
his family are members of the Evangelical Lutheran church. By constantly fol-
lowing progressive methods and by making his long experience in practical agri-
culture effective Mr. Dornfeld has put his farm in excellent condition and made it
one of the most modern and highly developed properties in this section.
GEBHARD WEBER.
Gebhard Weber is proprietor of a large brewery in the village of Theresa
and has been interested in this enterprise for almost forty years. During this
period he has given most of his time and attention to its conduct and by reason
of his long experience and the industry and integrity which are elements in his
character has made it one of the important enterprises of its kind in Dodge
county. He has been a resident of Theresa since he was seven years of age but
was born in Wuertemberg, Germany, September 4, 1846. His father, Benedict
Weber, came to America with his family in 1853 and settled in Theresa, where
he became connected with the brewing industry. He followed that line of
activity until his death, which occurred in 1864. His wife was in her maiden-
hood Miss Josephine Weiss, a native of Germany, in which country their mar-
riage occurred. She died in 1885.
Gebhard Weber is the eldest in a family of four children. He was educated
in the district and German schools of Dodge county and when he laid aside his
books learned the brewing business, which he has followed since that time. It
was in 1873 that he became sole owner of his present enterprise and for almost
forty years has been active in its management. He has founded a distinct and
substantial prosperity upon a thorough acquaintance with the best and most
modern methods of brewing and upon business principles which are always
fair and honorable and has made his brewery an important business institution
and gained for himself recognition as a man of resourceful ability, whose ener-
gies have been factors in the industrial growth of the village. He has invested
the money which he made judiciously and owns stock in several local enterprises,
including the electric light company. He is also the proprietor of a fine farm
of one hundred and forty-six acres in Dodge county.
On April 14, 1874, Mr. Weber was united in marriage to Miss Marie M.
Husting, a daughter of Nicholas Husting, one of the first settlers in Theresa,
who came to the village in 1855 and who died here in 1896. His wife was
Miss Marion Faber and her death occurred in 1907. Mrs. Weber was born in
Germany and was five years of age when she came to America. She has spent
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
practically all her life in Wisconsin. She and her husband have had eight chil-
dren: Arnold E. ( who is married and resides in Theresa, where he is engaged
in the insurance business; Bertram, who is engaged in the brewing business
with his father and who is married ; Victor R., who with his wife and child
resides in Theresa, where he is a hardware merchant; Cornelius G., of Great
Falls, Montana, who was graduated from the University of .Wisconsin in
1908 as an electrical engineer ; Waldemar, at home ; Alexia, who is a student in
the Mayville high school ; Camilla, who is also attending high school ; and one,
who died in infancy.
Mr. Weber gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and was
the first president of the village of Theresa. He is actively and intelligently
interested in the affairs of the community but does not seek public office. He has
been a business man since he began his active career and at the present time as
head of a growing enterprise is evidencing qualities of sagacity, initiative and
ability which have made him distinctly successful.
Henry Fellenz is a partner in the firm of Fellenz & Bartelt, general merchants
in Theresa, and has aided by his industry and experience in making the business
with which he is connected flourishing and prosperous. He has been a resident
of Wisconsin all his life and of the village of Theresa for seven years. He was
born on December 4, 1876, in Scott township, Sheboygan county, a son of Joseph
and Anna (Koelch) Fellenz. His father was a native of Germany and came to
America when he was nine years of age, settling with his parents in Scott town-
ship. "He was educated in the district schools and his active career was spent in
farming. He lived in Sheboygan county for many years and there died in 1899.
His wife is still living.
Henry Fellenz is the fourth in a family of six children. He received his
education in the district schools of his native section and after he laid aside his
books clerked in general merchandise store in West Bend. There he remained
for twelve years, gaining by personal experience valuable knowledge of modern
methods of operation. In 1905 he removed to Theresa and formed a partnership
with a Mr. Hagner in the operation of a general store which was conducted un-
der the name of Hagner & Fellenz. After five years Mr. Hagner sold out his
interests, which were purchased by Mr. Bartelt, and the enterprise has since
operated under the name of Fellenz & Bartelt. By hard work, honesty and busi-
ness ability Mr. Fellenz has been steadily successful in the management of his
store and his trade is growing gradually but surely. In all his business affaiis
he is alert and enterprising and has met with a degree of prosperity which re-
wards labor when combined with efficiency. He is a stockholder in a local milling
company and also in the Theresa Electric Light Company.
In 1901 Mr. Fellenz was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Berrcs, of St.
Michael, Washington county, and a daughter of John and Catherine Berres, the
former a prominent farmer in that district. Mr. and Mrs. Fellenz have two
children, Marcella and Pearlie.
HENRY FELLENZ.
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379
In his political views Mr. Fellenz is a consistent democrat, but his attention
has always been absorbed by his mercantile interests and he has never sought
public office. He works for his advancement and by promoting his own success
along worthy and progressive lines has made his influence felt in the commercial
development of the village.
THEODORE LEHMANN.
Prosperity has attended the efforts of Theodore Lehmann, a breeder of regis-
tered Holstein-Friesian cattle and a well known farmer of the town of Emmet,
who owns and cultivates a farm on section 22. Diligence and enterprise have
constituted the foundation of his success and through well directed effort he has
worked his way upward until his position as a leading business man, farmer and
breeder of Emmet township is well established. He was born in Jefferson county,
Wisconsin, July 16, 1874, and while spending his youthful days upon his father's
farm attended the public schools during the winter months, while the summer
seasons were devoted to farm work. He is, however, largely a self-educated
man, acquiring much of his knowledge through reading and experience after
attaining his majority. He clerked in a store for three years in early manhood
and thus obtained a practical business training along commercial lines. Subse-
quently he went to Milwaukee, where he was employed by the Milwaukee Har-
vester Company and also worked for a time in the machinery business for other
parties at Johnson's Creek, Wisconsin. In 1900 he came to Dodge county and
for five years thereafter engaged in the cultivation of a farm. In 1905 he made
purchase of eighty-one acres, constituting his present farm, and, locating upon
this place, he began to further develop and improve it. It is an excellent property,
being known as one of the leading stock farms of this part of the state. When
he came to Dodge county in 1900 he brought with him some high-grade Holstein
cattle, which he began to breed and improve and in 1903 he made his first pur-
chase of registered stock. For the last five years he has handled only pure-
blooded, registered cattle and he has raised and sold some fine animals, shipping
stock to Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan and to numerous points in other
states. He now has a very fine herd of Holstein-Friesian cattle, which are tuber-
culin tested. He has made some fine official records with some of his cows. The
herd is headed by a bull whose dam, a sister of the world's record cow, Grace
Fayne, with a record of thirty-five and fifty-five hundredths pounds of butter in
seven days. Mr. Lehmann certainly stands in the front rank with a superior
herd of Holstein-Friesian cattle, as is substantiated by the following, taken from
the Watertown Times:
"Editor Daily News: Last fall and winter I have seen a number of articles
in the Times in regard to daily and monthly milk production, and the amount of
money received per month at the Van Camp factory, but I have failed to see a
single item in yearly production. So I thought it would perhaps interest some
of your readers to know what has been going on at Inland Stock Farm with a
herd of registered Holstcins, of which Watertown is the second largest center
in the state, and Wisconsin is second in this continent.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
"My herd consists mostly of two and three year olds, and the milk was hauled
to a cheese factory, averaging 8,402 pounds per head, for which I received $114.43
per head. Besides all calves but two were raised on fresh milk until three months
of age, which means at least 1,000 to 1,200 pounds per calf more, besides what
was used in the home, and we all like it. This is not meant as a brag, because
I know that there are other herds that have done a good deal better, but just to
start the ball a rolling and get others to do likewise or better. I also expect to do
better this year as most of my cows were young. — Theodore Lehmann, A Water-
town Booster."
In addition he is engaged in raising pedigreed seed grain, including barley,
oats, corn and wheat. He is a member of the Wisconsin Agricultural Experi-
ment Association and he stands for progress along all lines that contribute to the
success and welfare of the farmer and stock-raiser.
Mr. Lehmann was married in Watertown, October 31, 1900, to Miss Lillie
Habhegger, who was born in Fulda, Minnesota, and came to Watertown with
her family when she was eight years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Lehmann have four
children, Otto, Ray, Theodore and Verna. Politically Mr. Lehmann is inde-
pendent, supporting men and measures rather than party. He and his family are
members of the Watertown Lutheran church and his interest in general affairs
is that of a public-spirited citizen, who always stands for welfare and improvement.
REV. FRANCIS C. PICHERY.
Rev. Francis C. Pichery has for the past ten years officiated as priest of St.
Andrew's church in Leroy and is well known as a devout and zealous worker
in the interests of Catholicism here. His birth occurred in Beaver Dam, Wiscon-
sin, on the 13th of October, 1867. his parents being J. H. and Mary (Kusterer)
Pichery. The father, who was born in 1834, passed away in the year 1889, while
the mother, whose natal year was 1836, was called to her final rest in 1906.
Henry C. Pichery, the paternal grandfather of our subject, spent his entire
life in Marburg, Germany. In his family were five children, three sons and two
daughters. Two of the sons became physicians by profession. J. H. Pichery,
whose birth occurred in Marburg, Germany, learned the barber's trade and also
gained a knowledge of the profession of dentistry. He was the only son of his
father's family who emigrated to America, crossing the Atlantic in 1854 and
coming direct to Wisconsin. Locating at Beaver Dam, he there worked at his
trade throughout the remainder of his life. At the time of the Civil war he
went to the defense of the Union, enlisting at New Lisbon and making a credit-
able record as a valiant and loyal soldier. It was shortly after his arrival in
this county that he wedded Miss Mary Kusterer, a daughter of Michael and
Mary (Kaufmann) Kusterer, both of whom were born near Ratisbon, Bavaria.
They came to the United States in 1854, locating in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin,
where Michael Kusterer worked at the tailor's trade. He later purchased land
and turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits. In his family were
seven children, of whom Mrs. Pichery was the third in order of birth. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Pichery were born four children, as follows: Anna, the
REV. FRANCIS C. PICHKRY
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883
deceased wife of Lorenz Faust, of Oshkosh, by whom she had six children;
William J., who is pastor of St. John's church in Jefferson, Wisconsin ; Francis
C, of this review ; and Mary, who is the wife of Joseph Thomas, of Milwaukee,
by whom she has two children.
Francis C. Pichery obtained his early education in the parochial school at
Beaver Dam and when a youth of fifteen entered St. Francis Seminary, from
which he was graduated in 1895. He was first assigned as assistant to Father
Willmes at St. Mary's church in Milwaukee, remaining there for two years.
In 1897 he took charge of St. Charles church at Cassville, Grant county, Wis-
consin, and in 1899 was transferred to Neosho. In 1902 he was given charge
of St. Andrew's church at Leroy, Dodge county, and here he has remained to the
present time. Under his supervision the convent was built in 1904, the school-
house has been enlarged, stained glass windows have been placed in the church
and the property has been improved generally, about twelve thousand dollars
having been expended in this way during Father Pichery's pastorate. The
church property is valued at about forty thousand dollars. St. Andrew's school,
which was erected under Father Fessler in 1882, is taught by the Sisters of St.
Dominic of Racine and has an attendance of about one hundred and fifty chil-
dren. There are eight grades, and graduates are admitted to the Mayville high
school. Rev. Pichery has the love and cooperation of his parishioners in an
unusual degree and his labors are proving a potent element in the spread
of Catholicity here.
RICHARD ROLL, Sr.
Since beginning his career at the age of sixteen Richard Roll's activities have
touched and influenced every important phase of agricultural, business and edu-
cational life of Hustisford township, his native section. While he engaged in
farming he was one of the forces in the development and establishment of pro-
gressive agricultural methods and his work along business lines in the village
has been always of the constructive and forceful kind which promotes general
activity. Mr. Roll was born one and a half miles from the village of Hustisford,
on April 1, i860, and is a son of Frederick and Charlotte (Wegner) Roll, natives
of Prussia, Germany, the father born March 1, 1830, and the mother, June 6,
1833. They were married in Berlin and came to America in 1855, settling imme-
diately in Hustisford township, on an unimproved farm. Upon his property
the father of our subject resided until 1899, in which year he moved into Hustis-
ford, where he lived retired until his death, which occurred January 3, 1903. He
was one of the well known and widely popular men of this section and was
interested in public affairs, especially as they effected school expansion. He held
various offices along this line in his district and did able work in any position
which he held. His wife survived him nine years, dying February 20, 191 2.
They were the parents of four children: Frederick, who is living retired in
Hustisford; Gustav, who is engaged in farming north of Mayville; Richard, of
this review ; and Hattie, who resides with her oldest brother,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Richard Roll, Sr., acquired his early education in the district schools of Hustis-
ford township and completed his studies in the Horicon high school and in Ripon
College. He is in all essential respects a self-made man, for he began earning
his own livelihood at the age of sixteen and has been independent of outside aid
since that time. His first position was as a farm hand at fourteen dollars per
month, but he worked in this capacity only during the summers, spending his
winters in school. In this way he acquired an excellent education and by study,
reading and observation, fitted himself for teaching. When he was eighteen
years of age he took his first teacher's examination, standing before the examining
board dressed in a pair of overalls. With his characteristic energy he worked
his way upward in his chosen line of work and finally in 1882 became principal
of the Hustisford schools. He held this position until 1902 but for some time
conducted a general insurance and real-estate office in connection with his duties
as a teacher. In 1902 he became cashier of the Hustisford State Bank and still
continues in that position. He was the organizer of the Marshfield State Bank
and was its president for three years, and is also connected as stockholder with
the Burnett State Bank. He has proved himself a careful and conservative
financier, a close student of modern banking methods and the institutions with
which he is connected are among the most solid and reliable banks in this part
of the state. However, his identification with banking forms only one of Mr.
Roll's important business associations. He has been carried forward by sheer
force of his ability and discrimination into relations which touch almost every
kind of business enterprise in the township. He is vice president of the Mil-
waukee Western Interurban Railroad Company, a director and stockholder in
the Hustisford Canning Company, president of the Roll-Dehne Mercantile Com-
pany at Burnett Junction, a stockholder in the Hustisford Mercantile Company
and president of the Burnett Mercantile Company. He has besides become dur-
ing the years an important factor in agricultural circles. He owns one hundred
and sixty acres of the finest improved land in the county, which he has rented to
the Hustisford Canning Company, and for thirty years he was secretary of the
Hustisford Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, still retaining his membership.
On January 11, 1882, Mr. Roll married Miss Anna Schmidt, who was born
in Hustisford, August 12, 1862, a daughter of Dr. J. A. Schmidt, a native of
Saxony, Germany. He and his wife came to America about the year 1857 and
located in Hustisford, where Dr. Schmidt practiced his profession for over thirty
years. At the end of that time he moved to Hopkinsville, Kentucky, where he
now resides, his wife having passed away in Hustisford. Mr. and Mrs. Roll
have three children. Amos, who was born November 9, 1883, married Miss
Meta Zilish, of Hustisford, and is cashier of the Marshfield State Bank at Marsh-
field, Wisconsin. Hugo, whose birth occurred July 7, 1885, wedded Miss Bessie
Winkie, of Burnett. They reside in Burnett Junction, where Mr. Roll is cashier
of the Burnett State Bank. Richard, Jr., whose natal day was June 10, 1888,
was united in marriage to Miss Dina Roeseler, of Hustisford. Mr. Roll is
principal of the Hustisford schools.
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Roll, Sr., are devout adherents of the Union church.
Fraternally he is prominent in the Masonic order, holding membership in the
lodge at Neosho and in the chapter at Horicon. He belongs also to the Modern
Woodmen of America. He gives a general allegiance to the democratic party
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
385
but upon all doubtful questions votes according to his personal conviction. He
is president of the school board but beyond this has never been connected with
official public life, and yet no man in the county is more richly endowed with the
qualities essential to good citizenship — the active interest in development and
growth, the quiet but forceful work along expanding lines, the steady adherence
to high standards in business and private relations and the loyal public spirit.
ROBERT IRVING.
Robert Irving, living retired at No. 315 North Warren street, Watertown, has
a record of over fifteen years of continuous identification with democratic politics
of his county, during which time he was never defeated for office. His popularity
and the efficacy of his work are evidenced by the fact that he was time after time
given positions of trust and confidence by his fellow citizens who knew his reliable
and upright qualities and who honored him for his work and achievement. He
was born in the village of Greenbush, Rensselaer county, New York, February
27, 1840, a son of Thomas and Mary (Casey) Irving, who were born in Ireland.
The father of our subject was reared and educated in County Tyrone and came
to the United States in 1833, settling immediately in Rensselaer county, New
York, where he worked upon a farm for some time. Afterward he moved to
Albany where he established a dairy, selling his milk in the markets of the city.
This enterprise he conducted until 1846 when he moved with his family to Dodge
county where he bought forty acres of government land in Clyman township, which
he improved and developed, adding to his holdings from time to time until he
had one hundred and forty acres. He died upon his farm June 18, 1873, when
he was sixty years of age. His wife passed away June 4, 1873, also in her
sixtieth year. Both were members of the Roman Catholic church. In their
family were six children: Robert, the subject of this review; Maria, the wife
of Jacob Burger, of Clyman township; Richard, of Watertown; Thomas, who has
passed away; Catharine, the deceased wife of Mr. Milligan; and Sarah, the de-
ceased wife of Patrick Stanton.
Robert Irving was reared upon his father's farm in Dodge county, having
reached the sixth year of his age when the family moved to that section. Con-
sequently his early education was received in the district schools and when he
had completed the usual course he entered Wayland University at Beaver Dam.
In the fall of 1863 he began teaching school and for twenty-three years followed
this line of occupation, being employed for seventeen years of that time in three
adjoining districts.
On the 26th of November, 1890, Mr. Irving married Miss Lizzie Lahm, a
daughter of John and Anna Gertrude (Runkel) Lahm, who came to America
from Prussia, in 1848, and located in Lowell township, Dodge county, where they
passed away, the mother in 1872 when she was fifty-four years of age and the
father in 1903, aged eighty-four. In their family were five children: Elizabeth,
Caroline, William, Philip and Ettie. Mrs. Irving is a descendant of a long line
of German ancestors, her paternal grandfather, John Lahm, being a native of
that country and prominent in religious circles of that section. He and his wife
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
died in the fatherland. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Irving were John
and Elizabeth (Hess) Runkel, who lived and died in Germany. Mrs. Irving was
formerly a member of the Lutheran church, her parents and grandparents having
been adherents of that religion. She and her husband, however, now belong to
the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Irving was for many years prominent in demo-
cratic politics in Dodge county, having made this his principal interest after he
abandoned school teaching. He did able and effective work as supervisor of
Clyman township and afterward held the positions of chairman and assessor of
that district. For seven years he was chairman of Emmet township and for
three years of that time was chairman of the county board, bringing to the dis-
charge of his official duties a conscientiousness, energy, and resourceful ability
which made him an ideal public servant. He met with his usual success during
his four-year term as county clerk and only abandoned his active identification
with local political life upon his retirement on April 27, 1897, when he moved to
Watertown where he has since resided. He and his wife are highly respected in
this city where their many worthy qualities of mind and character have gained
them many friends.
Horatio H. Hoard is one of the well known business men of VVaupun, where
he is successfully engaged in the general mercantile business. He was born
January 26, 1856, in Wyoming county, New York, and is a son of Harry H. and
Rebecca (Avery) Hoard. The paternal great-grandfather was a Revolutionary
soldier and the grandfather was a veteran of the War of 1812. He was one of
the first settlers in Wyoming county, New York, where he died at the age of
ninety-two. The grandmother died when ninety years old. The father of our
subject was a recruiting officer during the war of the rebellion and later captain
of the New York state militia. He died in New York in 1861. The mother,
still living at the age of eighty-eight, maintains her residence with the subject
of this review. They were the parents of five children, as follows: Jeannette,
who passed away at the age of forty years; Oliver, who died when forty-five
years old ; Lauren, who is engaged in the jewelry business at Waupun ; Horatio H.,
of this review ; and Ella, the wife of T. G. Simpson, of North Dakota.
Horatio H. Hoard was reared in his parents' home and received his early
education in the public schools. He later completed his high-school course at
Oshkosh, Wisconsin. At the age of sixteen he took up work for John Roberts
of Waupun and continued in that occupation for four years. He then established
himself in the general merchandising business, in which he has since continued and
has met with gratifying success. His business is now operated under the firm
name of H. H. Hoard & Son Company.
Mr. Hoard was first united in marriage in 1876 to Miss Elva Wilcox, who
was a granddaughter of the first settler of Waupun and a daughter of Heman
and Esther (Maxwell) Wilcox. The mother was a native of Ireland and died
at the age of forty. Mrs. Hoard was born in 1857 and died at Waupun in 1905.
She was the mother of three children, as follows: Harry, born in 1885. who is
HORATIO H. HOARD.
HISTORY Of DODGE COUNTY
387
a graduate of the agricultural school at Madison ; Schuyler, whose natal year
was 1887; and Nilla, who was born in 1889 and is still at home. The last
named completed a course in domestic science at Downer College. In 1908 Mr.
Hoard married Miss Frances Learned, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Monroe
Learned, who were early settlers of Wisconsin. The mother is still living at
the age of seventy-two and resides in Milwaukee.
Mr. Hoard is affiliated with the democratic party and was appointed by
Governor McGovern a member of the conservative commission of Wisconsin.
He and his wife are members of the Congregational church of Waupun. Mr.
Hoard has always been known as a man of strict integrity in business matters
and has by virtue of a consistent and well ordered life acquired and maintained
the respect and confidence of all the people with whom he has come in contact,
and he is numbered among the useful citizens of his county and state.
HERMAN ZIEMER.
Herman Ziemer resides on section 29, in the town of Emmet, Dodge county,
where he is well known not only as a practical and successful farmer but also
as the efficient chairman of the town board. He is one of the county's native
sons, his birth having occurred in the town of Lebanon, February 23, 1861. His
father, Henry Ziemer, was born in Prussia, Germany, and was a son of Charles
Ziemer, a carpenter by trade, who came to the new world with his family in
1858. He made his way direct to Wisconsin, settling in Lebanon township,
Dodge county, where he took up the occupation of farming, being among the
first to engage in agricultural pursuits in that district. Henry Ziemer was a
young man when he came with his parents to the new world and he soon became
an active factor in the business activity of Dodge county. He was a successful
farmer, purchasing and owning two different tracts of land which he brought
under a high state of cultivation and developed into valuable properties. He
spent his active life upon the farm and is now living retired at the age of eighty-
three, while his wife is seventy-six years of age. They now make their home
with their son Herman, who is caring for them in their declining years. The
mother, who bore the maiden name of Caroline Schwartz, is also a native of
Germany.
Herman Ziemer is the only living son in a family of four children. He was
reared upon the old homestead farm in the town of Lebanon and acquired his
education in the common schools. His boyhood and youth were devoted to the
work of the fields and later he took charge of the place and business, relieving
his father of all care, labor and anxiety. The occupation to which he was reared
he has made his life work and his well directed energies are evidenced in the
excellent appearance of the place and the abundant crops there gathered. He
now has a farm of ninety acres of well improved and valuable land and in
connection with the tilling of the soil he makes a specialty of raising high-grade
Holstein cattle. He is also a stockholder in the Globe cooperative cheese factory
and carries on dairying to some extent, having a herd of twenty Holsteins. He
also raises Chester White hogs and horses, and at all times he believes in the
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
improvement of the grade of stock raised as well as in advancement in general
agricultural matters. Aside from his individual interests as a farmer and stock-
raiser he is a stockholder in the Inter-County Fair Association of Watertown
and also of the Watertown Telephone Company. He is likewise a member of
the Breeders Live Stock Association of Wisconsin and of the American Chester
White Hog Record Association.
In the town of Emmet, on the 5th of July, 1888, Mr. Ziemer was united in
marriage to Miss Dina Hildermann, who was born and reared in this county.
They have become the parents of five children, Delia, Sedia, Arthur, Aurelia and
George. The eldest son is now assisting his father in carrying on the home
farm. The parents arc members of the Watertown Lutheran church and Mr.
Ziemer takes an active interest in local politics, having always given his support
to the democratic party. Appreciative of his worth and ability, his fellow towns-
men elected him chairman of the town board of Emmet, on which he has now
served for two terms. He is an active and progressive man in both matters of
citizenship and of business and his well formulated plans and unfaltering industry
enable him to carry forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.
James C. Moylan, who was born December 23, 1864. on the farm which he
now cultivates, is a prominent agriculturist of Dodge county. His property
comprises one hundred acres on section 17, Trenton township, which are highly
improved and on which he follows agricultural pursuits along modern and
progressive lines. Beside general farming he gives attention to stock-raising,
making a specialty of dairying and the breeding of hogs and horses for the
market. His labors have not only been of material success to himself but have
played an important part in the development and progress of agricultural interests
in this section. His parents were John and Catherine (Malone) Moylan, natives
of the Emerald isle, who crossed the Atlantic to seek better living conditions in
this land of opportunities. They were married in this county and soon after-
ward the father bought the place on which our subject now resides and there
made his home. It was in 1847 tnat Mr. and Mrs. John Moylan located here
and they were among the early pioneers of this section. When the father acquired
the land it was in a raw state and he made thereon the first improvements and
gradually brought all the land under cultivation and attained success in his pur-
suits. On the 9th of June, 1894, he passed away on this property, at the age of
seventy-six years, while the mother had preceded him in death twenty years,
having died in 1874, at the age of thirty-eight. They are both buried in St.
Mary's cemetery in Trenton township.
James C. Moylan was fourth in a family of eight children, of whom his
brother Joseph P. was born February 3, 1867, and now lives on the home place
with our subject. He has made the homestead his residence almost constantly
and assists his brother in the management and labors on the farm. His, political
affiliations are with the democratic party and he is a member of St. Patrick's
church of Beaver Dam.
JAMES C. MOYLAN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
James C. Moylan was reared upon the homestead and attended the public
schools of the neighborhood. After laying aside his text-books he assisted his
father in the work of the farm and gained valuable knowledge along agricultural
lines, which stood him in good stead in later life. Since his father's death he
has taken full charge and gives his attention to general farming and stock-
raising. He has fourteen high-grade Holstein cows and sells his milk to the
cheese factories. He makes a specialty of raising Poland China hogs for the
market and also breeds Percheron horses. All his land is well improved and
under the plow; his fields are fenced and about six acres are hog tight. In
1903 he built a handsome frame residence upon the property, in which the family
make their home. In 1895 he erected a barn, the dimensions of which are
thirty-two by fifty-six feet, and he has put up other outbuildings to house his
grain and stock. The water supply for all purposes comes from drilled wells.
In 1896 Mr. Moylan was united in marriage to Miss Anna Bowe, a daughter
of John and Ellen (Mahoney) Bowe, natives of Ireland. They were among the
first settlers in this county and the father was a veteran of the Mexican war.
Both parents of Mrs. Moylan have passed away and arc buried in St. Mary's
cemetery. Mrs. Moylan was the youngest of eight children and was born June
15, 1865. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moylan have been born two children: James H.,
who is attending the State Agricultural College at Madison to better prepare
himself for agricultural pursuits; and Helen C.
Mr. Moylan is an adherent of the democratic party and votes for the candi-
dates and measures of this organization in national and state politics. He takes
laudable interest in local public affairs and is a champion of educational improve-
ment. For twelve years he has served as a member of the school board and
has been instrumental in bettering the school system and educational facilities
of his district. Mr. Moylan and his family are devout communicants of St.
Patrick's Catholic church of Beaver Dam and both he and his wife take an active
interest in church work. His fraternal affiliations are confined to his member-
ship in the Catholic Order of Foresters. Mr. Moylan has been an important
factor in the agricultural development of the section in which he lives and his
farm today is one of the model places of its kind in the county. He may well
be proud of the success he has attained. He and his wife have made many
friends in this section, in which he has lived since his birth, and both are highly
esteemed by all those who know them.
ERNST E. BUTTERBRODT.
Ernst E. Butterbrodt was born January 7, 1858, in Germany, and is now
living on one hundred and twenty acres of highly improved land on sections 8
and 17, Trenton township. He engages in general farming and stock-raising and
his efforts have been attended with remarkable success. He has greatly improved
the farm upon which he lives and has placed thereon a fine residence and a
number of other buildings necessary for its cultivation. His parents were August
and Wi'helmina (Kuehn) Butterbrodt, who in 1864 emigrated from the father-
land to America when our subject was only six years of age. They proceeded
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
directly to Wisconsin and there the father bought fifty-three acres of land, which
were partly developed and where he has made his home ever since. 1* rom time
to time he has added to his original farm until he owns one hundred and fifty
acres. He now makes his home there at the age of eighty-three years. The
mother is still living at the age of seventy-five.
Ernst E. Butterbrodt was the eldest of ten children. He was reared at
home and received his education in the district schools of the neighborhood. He
ably assisted his father in the work on the farm and became acquainted with
•agricultural methods, remaining under the parental roof until he had attained
the age of twenty-five, when he commenced upon an independent career by
engaging in farm work on his own account on the place on which he now lives,
which he bought at that time. Mr. Butterbrodt engages in general farming and
stock-raising. He has a herd of fifteen cows and sells his milk to the cheese
factories. He also raises Chester White hogs for the market. His land is all
in a high state of cultivation and all the hay and grain is used for his stock except
the barley, which he sells in the market. He follows along scientific lines in
raising his stock and receives the highest prices the market commands for all
his products. In 1907 he remodeled his residence, putting in modern improve-
ments, and in 1910 he enlarged his barn, making it twenty-four by eighty-six
feet, and placed a cement floor therein. He receives his water supply from
drilled wells. There is a fine orchard upon his place, which has been set out
by our subject, and all the improvements thereon have been brought about by
his labors. Mr. Butterbrodt beside his farm interests is also a stockholder in
the cheese factory.
Mr. Butterbrodt married, on March 29, 1883, Miss Ida Zuclke, a daughter
of Michael and Wilhelmina Zuelke, who were among the pioneer settlers of
this county. Her father passed away before her marriage and her mother died
in 1894. Mrs. Butterbrodt was the second of four children, born October 19,
1854. To our subject and his wife eight children were born: Frank R., of
Beaver Dam, who is married and has two children; Alvinjf, a record of whom
appears elsewhere in this work; and Ella, Frida, Edwin, Roland, Nora and
Alida, all of whom are at home. The two youngest, Nora and Alida, are now
attending high school. Mr. Butterbrodt and his family are members of the
Lutheran church of Beaver Dam and they take an active and helpful interest in
this organization. He has attained a creditable success in his endeavors and
his labors have contributed to the agricultural development of the state. He
and his wife have made many friends in this section and they are greatly honored
and esteemed by all who know them.
ROLAND R. WILLIAMS.
One of the well known native sons of Dodge county and one of the progres-
sive and enterprising farmers and dairymen of Calamus township is Roland R.
Williams, who is cultivating an excellent tract of one hundred and twenty acres
on sections 14 and 23, constituting the farm upon which his father settled after
hi* arrival from Wales in 1850. By industry and hard work he has brought
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
391
his land to a high state of development, adhering steadily to his father's policy
of improvement. Mr. Williams was born upon the farm which he is now operat-
ing, July 14, 1850, and is a son of Owen and Margaret (Rowland) Williams,
natives of Wales. The father emigrated to America in 1850 and settled upon
a farm in Calamus township, which he cultivated and improved until his death,
which occurred in 1873. Th e mother of our subject was born in 1813 and died
in Dodge county in 1897. She and her husband had five children: John R.,
who is married and lives in Pasadena, California; Elizabeth, at home; Owen,
a resident of Fallon, Montana; Thomas, who was born in 1855 and died in
1873; and Roland R., of this review.
Roland R. Williams was educated in the district schools of his native section
and from his early childhood assisted his father in the work of improving and
developing the homestead. He is now the owner of one hundred and twenty
acres of land, eighty-five of which are under cultivation. It is a valuable and
well improved property, equipped with fine buildings and modern accessories and
its owner is accounted one of the progressive and substantial agriculturists of
his section, his early training and his interest in his work constituting important
elements in his success. He carries on general farming and raises cattle of all
grades but his principal income is derived from his dairy, which is a model
enterprise of its kind. He keeps a herd of high-grade cows for this purpose
and sells his product to a neighboring cheese factory.
Mr. Williams is a member of the Welsh Presbyterian church and is known
throughout the section in which he resides as a man of exemplary character.
He represents farming in its newest and most progressive developments and
has won success by industry, ability and practical common sense, these qualities
uniting to make him an upright man and a useful citizen.
RICHARD MAURER.
Richard Maurer was born August 9, 1853, in the town of Hartford, Wash-
ington county, this state, and now resides on an extensive piece of highly culti-
vated farm property, comprising three hundred and thirty acres on sections 4
and 5, Trenton township. He has made a creditable record along agricultural
lines, his course being marked by steady progress, gained through modern,
progressive methods. His work has not only brought him material success but
has been a valuable asset in the agricultural development of this section. His
parents were Richard and Eva (Schroeder) Maurer, natives of Germany, where
they were married before coming to America in 1853. After their arrival in
this country they proceeded directly to Wisconsin and settled in the town of
Hartford, Washington county, where the father bought land, which he brought
under cultivation and where he made his home until 1877, when he sold his
holdings to remove to Dodge county. Here he invested in one hundred and
ninety acres, which form part of the place our subject now owns. It was partly
improved at the time of the purchase and Richard Maurer devoted the rest of
his life to its further improvement and cultivation. He passed away August
17, 191 1, in his eighty-third year, and is buried in Oakwood cemetery at Beaver
392
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Dam. The mother survives at the age of seventy-eight years and nukes her
home with our subject. Richard Maurer was the eldest of seven children, of
whom only two are now living, our subject and a sister, Alberta Dena, who
makes her home with her brother.
Richard Maurer was reared at home and gained his education in the district
schools near his father's farm. Laying aside his text-books, he assisted his father
in the work around the place and gained valuable agricultural knowledge. He
became efficient along various lines of agriculture and stock-raising and the
knowledge which he thus acquired has stood him in good stead in his later
endeavors. Mr. Maurer engages in general farming and stock-raising. He
specializes in raising pure-bred Shorthorn cattle for the market and has a herd
of about eighty head. He raises pure-bred Chester White hogs and in these
pursuits follows along the latest and most approved lines. All the hay and grain
of his farm he uses for feeding purposes. The early improvements upon the
place were made by his father, but all the later buildings have been erected by
our subject and they stand today as a monument to his industry and progressive
spirit. Mr. Maurer is also the owner of a threshing outfit and derives no
inconsiderable revenue from this undertaking.
In May, 1883, Mr. Maurer was united in marriage to Miss Tina Schliewert
She was the youngest of seven children, born May 7, 1862. Mr. and Mrs.
Maurer have three children : Albert, who is living on the home farm, assisting
his father in the work about the place ; and Herman and Hilda, both at home.
The family affiliate with the Lutheran denomination and are members of the
church of Beaver Dam. Mr. Maurer is a republican and has been more or less
prominent in the public life of his community. For two years he served as town
treasurer and that he interests himself in the cause of education is indicated by
the fact that he has acted as clerk of the school board for several years. Trenton
township is better for his life's labor and he has contributed in no small way
by his progressiveness and modern methods to the general agricultural develop-
ment of this section. During his long residence here Mr. and Mrs. Maurer have
made many friends, who find great satisfaction to honor this worthy couple
ALBERT H. POTTS.
Albert H. Potts, is well known in commercial circles of Fox Lake where he
is conducting a modern drug store along practical and enterprising lines. He is
recognized in the city in which he resides as a business man who by honorable
and straightforward dealings and universal courtesy and intelligence has founded
a sucrcssful and important enterprise. He was born in Marshall, Michigan, on
February 2, 1848, and is a son of James D. and Phoebe (Hendrickson) Potts,
natives of New York state. They died in California, the mother in 1859 and
the father in 1886.
Albert H. Potts was the older of two children born to his parents, and is
the only one now living, his sister having died in infancy. He was educated in
the public schools of Marshall, pursuing his studies in that city until he was ten
years of age. He then went to California with his parents where he learned
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
393
the printer's trade in Red Bluff, setting type with Anna Brown, the daughter of
John Brown of Harper's Ferry fame. Her family crossed the plains in 1862
and the state of California erected for her a comfortable home in Red Bluff. On
April 12, 1866, Albert H. Potts joined the Fifth Brigade, California Militia,
known as the Lassen Rangers, and served for six months coming to Wisconsin
at the end of that time, settling in Markcsan, where he obtained employment as
a clerk in a drug store. Here he remained for six months and then became
associated with a large general store where he was active for four years. In
1871 he purchased a drug business in Brandon, Wisconsin, remaining in that
city one year and then was active for a similar period in Minnesota. His resi-
dence in Fox Lake dates from 1873, in which year he bought the property upon
which he is now carrying on his drug business. It was then a bazaar and book
store but Mr. Potts installed a complete line of drugs and has since been pros-
perous and successful in this branch of activity. His store is one of the most
important enterprises of its kind in Fox Lake and in its prescription department
as well as in its more popular lines is expanding rapidly.
In 1875 Mr. Potts was united in marriage to Miss Alice Manley, of Markcsan,
who passed away in 1878. In 1880 our subject was again married, his second
wife being Miss Nellie Williams, who was born and reared in Cambria, Wis-
consin. Mr. Potts has three children: Ira, who is married and living in Buffalo,
New York; Alice M., who became the wife of Mr. Thomas of Lake Crystal,
Minnesota, by whom she has two children ; and John D., who lives in Milwaukee.
In his political affiliations Mr. Potts is a consistent democrat. He never seeks
public office, although he is interested in the progress and growth of the com-
munity in which he resides. He practically demonstrates this by his investments
in local enterprises, being at the present time a stockholder in the State Bank of
Fox Lake and in the Fox Lake Canning Company. He has that claim to
prominence in business circles which lies in the able and intelligent management
of a flourishing and increasingly successful establishment He has built up a
modern and up-to-date drug store but his success while it is valuable as a private
and public asset is entirely secondary to the upright principles and straight-
forward methods by which it has been attained.
RICHARD A. CHARMLEY.
Richard A. Charmley carries on general fanning, dairying and stock-raising
upon ninety acres of land on section 15, Calamus township, and by reason of
his long experience, his industry and intelligent activity has gained success in
every department of his agriculture. He is a native son of the section on which
he now resides and was born on the 23d of August, 1861. His father, Thomas
Charmley, was born in England in 1823 and was the first person aside from the
emigrants from Wales who located in what was known as the Welsh settlement,
a tract of land reaching from Randolph, Wisconsin, to Columbus. The father
of our subject took up his residence there in 1854, among the pioneers of the
state. He was a minister of the Wesleyan Methodist church and very prominent
in the councils of that organization, being one of the early circuit riders in Dodge
394
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
county. He afterward associated himself with the Free Methodist church and
was a member of that body at the time of his death, which occurred in 1903.
His wife was in her maidenhood Miss Jane Jackson. She was born in 1825 and
died in Pardeeville, Columbia county, in 1894. She and her husband had nme
children: Hannah, who died in England when she was an infant; John, who
was married and whose death occurred at Pardeeville, Wisconsin, in 1899; Ann .
who married William Gunn and whose death occurred at Staples, Minnesota,
on January 31, 1906; Thomas, who is married and lives in Rio, Wisconsin;
Martha, who is the wife of Charles Stimes, of Merrill ; Ellen, the wife of Charles
Worden, of Staples, Minnesota; Richard A., of this review; Joseph, of Staples,
Minnesota; and Benjamin.
Richard A. Charmley was reared at home and was educated in the district
schools of his native section. He has followed farming practically all his active
life and is now the owner of ninety acres of land, eighty of which are under
cultivation. His farm is modern in its equipment and is intelligendy developed,
entitling Mr. Charmley to rank among the progressive and successful men of
his district. He carries on general agricultural pursuits and breeds cattle of all
grades as well as Poland China hogs. His dairy, which is efficiently operated
and kept always clean and sanitary, forms an important addition to his income.
Mr. Charmley was married in 1889 to Miss Ellen Bonner and they are the
parents of one child, Cora J., who was born February 7, 1901. Mr. Charmley
gives his allegiance to the democratic party but concentrates his attention upon
the management of his farm and never seeks public office. He has applied his
energies successfully to making the land productive and has won prosperity by
the sure methods of hard and concentrated labor.
James F. Burns is owner of a valuable farm of two hundred and sixteen
acres on section 14, Fox Lake township, comprising an excellent tract of culti-
vated and improved land, developed along modern and progressive lines. He
has been identified with farming and stock-raising in Wisconsin during the entire
period of his active career and has been the proprietor of his present property
for thirty-eight years, gaining during the time a high place in agricultural circles
and in the respect and esteem' of his fellow citizens. He was fifteen years of
age when he came to Wisconsin, having been born in County Wicklow, in the
Vale of Avoca, Ireland, April 29, 1840. He is a son of John F. and Catherine
(Allen) Burns, natives of the Emerald isle, who came to America in 1849 and
settled in Oneida county, New York, where they remained until October, 1855,
when they came to Wisconsin, making the journey by rail to Watertown and
overland from Watertown to Fox Lake. Here they settled upon four acres of
land and the father worked in the woods and at various other occupations until
his death which occurred on the 7th of October, 1883. His wife had died some
years previously, her death having occurred on the 28th of July, 1865. Both
arc buried in St. Mary's cemetery.
JAMES F. BURNS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
395
James F. Burns was the youngest of five children and he worked in the
employ of his father until March, 1869. In that year he purchased the homestead
upon which he resided until 1874, when he bought the tract of land which he
now operates and which he has cultivated and improved since that time. The
soil is rich and his land productive, owing to the care and labor which he bestows
upon them. He has one hundred and fifty acres under the plow planted in
grain and hay which he feeds to his fine herds of pure-bred Durham cattle and
his Poland China hogs. He does general farming but specializes in stock-raising,
breeding high-grade animals for the Wisconsin markets. He has put up all the
buildings and improvements upon his place and by constant industry and intelli-
gent labor has made his enterprise one of the model farms in Dodge county.
On September 13, 1865, Mr. Burns was united in marriage to Miss Isabella
O'Brien, a daughter of Terrence and Mary (McGinney) O'Brien, who were
among the early settlers in Wisconsin. Mrs. Burns was the second in a family
of five children and was born on the 4th of March, 1846. To our subject and
his wife have been born eight children : John F., who resides at home ; Mary,
who is married and lives at home; James and Robert, both of whom make their
home with their parents; Catherine Bell, who is the wife of Joseph Hartel of
Fox Lake, by whom she has one child; Gertrude; Jerome, who passed away at
the age of seventeen years; and Esther, who married Matthew McDowell of
Fox Lake.
Mr. Burns gives allegiance to no particular political party, preferring to keep
his independence of judgment. He votes for the man whom he considers best
qualified for the position and is actively interested in local affairs, although he
never seeks public office. He and his family are devout adherents of the Roman
Catholic church. His life record illustrates the power of honesty and diligence
in insuring success. His labors have always been active and constructive and
intelligently carried forward and have resulted in placing him in the front rank
of progressive farmers.
LUMAN W. BROWN.
Ltiman W. Brown owns a fine farm of one hundred and nineteen acres on
section 11, Calamus township, constituting the land which his father obtained
as a government claim in the early days of the settlement of the state of Wis-
consin. It is now a highly improved and systematically developed tract, having
rewarded the labor bestowed upon it by abundant and increasing harvests. Mr.
Brown was born upon the property which he is now operating, October 2, 1858,
and is a son of Milo and Betsy E. (Thompson) Brown. The father was a native
of Tioga county, New York, born November 2, 182 1. He remained in that
section until the early '40s, when he came to Wisconsin and took up government
land in Dodge county. This he improved and operated and upon it he resided
until his death in 1900. His wife was born in Litchfield, Massachusetts, in
1813. She came to Beaver Dam in 1850 and in that city her marriage occurred
on May 19, of the following year. She passed away in 1906. She and her
husband became the parents of four children : Orlando, whose death occurred
396 HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
at Beaver Dam when he was twenty years of age; Orrin, who passed away at
the age of six years; Alonzo, who died in childhood; and Luman W., of this
review.
Luman W. Brown was reared upon his father's farm and from an early date
became acquainted with the best methods of agriculture. He has never left the
homestead and is now active in its operation, carrying on general farming and
stock-raising upon the property. The extensive improvements which he has
made from time to time and his constantly progressive and successful methods
have resulted in giving him rank among the substantial and representative agri-
culturists of his native section.
On March 2, 1881, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Addie J.
Fisher and they are the parents of four children. Roy M., who is twenty-eight
years of age, is married and resides at home. Edward, Chester and Mildred,
aged respectively twenty-six, twenty-four and twenty-one years, are living at
home.
Mr. Brown gives his allegiance to the republican party, and is prominent in
the affairs of the Modern Woodmen of America. He has been a farmer prac-
tically all his life, having been identified with the tilling and cultivation of the
soil since his early childhood. Prosperity has crowned his industry and well
directed activity, making him one of the enterprising and prominent men of
his district and a native son whose life record is a credit to his community.
DEAN J. HOTCHKISS.
Dean J. Hotchkiss is editor and proprietor of The Fox Lake Representative,
an enterprise which his father founded in 1866, and he is head of one of the
leading weekly newspapers in Dodge county. He has extended his activities
beyond journalism into fields of municipal expansion. He was born on April
22, i860, at Elkhorn and is a son of John and Carmelia (Fisher) Hotchkiss, the
former a native of Connecticut and the latter of Vermont. Their marriage
occurred in Randolph, New York, in 1855, and in the same year they came west
to Elkhorn, Wisconsin, where the father became a partner in the old Elkhorn
Independent. He was an able and conscientious journalist and was successful
in the conduct of this enterprise for five years when he moved to Sparta and
established The Eagle in that city which he conducted for two years. He sold
out at a profit and returned to Elkhorn, where shortly afterward he enlisted and
served as a non-commissioned officer in the Fourth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry,
doing active work until he was discharged for disability in 1862. In the follow-
ing year he became connected with his former newspaper The Sparta Eagle and
in 1864 was publisher of The Delavan Patriot. In January, 1865, he reenlisted
in the One Hundred and Forty-eighth Independent Volunteer Infantry, serving
until the end of the war. In September, 1866, he came from Elkhorn to Fox
Lake where he established the paper which his son is now conducting and ran
it along the most modern and progressive journalistic lines. He died on June
14, 1905, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. His wife survived him until the
31st of January, 191 1, being seventy-eight years old when she died. Both are
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
397
buried in Fox Lake cemetery. The father of our subject was a prominent man
in the affairs of the community in which he resided. He served several terms
as president of Fox Lake village and was a well known member of the local post
of the Grand Army of the Republic.
Dean J. Hotchkiss was the youngest in a family of three children. He was
educated in the Dodge county public schools and later attended Downer College
at Fox Lake for two years. When he laid aside his books he became associated
with his father in newspaper work, learning the mechanical details of printing
and becoming in a short time an able and enterprising journalist. In 1877 he
became a partner with his father and the association lasted until 1880 when Mr.
Hotchkiss went to Chicago where he spent five years. He worked at the printing
trade for two years in Sparta but during all this time retained his interest in
his father's newspaper. He was on the road as advance agent for the C. D.
Hess Grand Opera Company for one season and in the following winter occupied
the same position in the employ of Stanley, the African explorer, acting also in
the interests of Ovide Musin, the Danish violinist. In 1890 he returned to Fox
Lake and purchased his father's interest in The Fox lake Representative and is
still publishing this paper. He has a circulation of one thousand subscribers,
principally residents of Dodge county. As a journalist he is alert to every new
development in city and country life, a keen thinker and a discriminating judge
of men. The editorial pages of his paper are progressive and liberal in the
measures which they advocate and representative of the most modern political
and social ideas. The business end of the enterprise is ably and efficiently con-
ducted, the advertising and circulation departments showing a gratifying increase
in business every year.
In 1881 Mr. Hotchkiss was united in marriage to Miss Edna Darrow, a
daughter of Albert H. and Mary Jane (Clough) Darrow of Fond du Lac county.
Mrs. Hotchkiss was born on June 24, i860, and remained at home until her
marriage. She and her husband have two children: Genevieve, who married
H. J. Masters of Sparta; and Mary, who is a graduate of Northwestern Uni-
versity of Evanston, Illinois, and of the Comnock School of Oratory and who
has fitted herself for teaching.
In his political views Mr. Hotchkiss is a consistent republican, advocating
the principles and policies of this party in his papers. He has served as post-
master since 1904, having received his appointment in that year from Roosevelt
and his reappointment from Taft. He and his family affiliate with the Con-
gregational church of Fox Lake. He is a prominent Mason, holding member-
ship in the lodge and chapter and is also active in the affairs of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, serving in that organization as patriarch. He belongs
to the Modern Woodmen of America and to the Equitable Fraternal Union.
He is one of the foremost men in business, political and fraternal circles of Fox
Lake and has gained gratifying prosperity by hard work and determination. He
owns besides his beautiful residence the printing plant and several building lots
fronting the lake and is a stockholder in the State Bank of Fox Lake and also
in the local driving park. He has invested the money which he has acquired
judiciously and he owns a thirty-acre fruit ranch in the Isle of Pines in the West
Indies below Cuba, which is an important addition to his income. His two
daughters belong to the Order of the Eastern Star in which organization his
398
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
mother also held membership. His wife is well known in social circles of the
city, being a prominent member of the Woman's Qub and secretary of the
Woman's Home Missionary Union. She is a cultured and educated woman
and as a member of the library board has done able and useful work.
Mr. Hotchkiss is a man of varied interests and possesses the ability to make
each one separately effective. His position as head of the leading weekly journal
in Fox Lake gives him a place of power in the community of which his public
spirit leads him to make capable and efficient use. His undoubted influence is
always given to worthy and valuable causes and has been a factor in local
improvement. He is well known and most favorably regarded in Fox Lake as
a man who unites in his character business ability of a high order and repre-
sentative qualities of citizenship.
The village of Hustisford was named in honor of John Hustis, who visited
this district in early pioneer times, long before Wisconsin had existence as a
state. From that time forward he was more or less closely associated with
the development and progress of this portion of the state. From that time
forward he contributed in large measure to the work of development and improve-
ment here and although at different times he maintained his home elsewhere,
he yet retained an active connection with Hustisford and here passed away
when he had almost reached the remarkable old age of ninety-seven years. He
was born in Phillipstown, New York, on the 22d of October, 1810, and was a
graduate of Yale University with the class of 1833. He also pursued a course
in the Law School and in 1837 was admitted to the bar at New Haven, Con-
necticut, while later he was also admitted to practice at Albany. He made
his initial visit to Wisconsin in 1836, when he visited Milwaukee, then but a
village, and the following year he took up his abode there, investing in real
estate and engaging in business along that line for a short time. After remov-
ing to Wisconsin he made occasional trips to what is now Hustisford and ulti-
mately became the founder and promoter of the village. He spent his first night
here on the 17th of August, 1837, — a date which he celebrated every year
thereafter.
In 1839 Mr. Hustis returned to New York and was united in marriage at
Carmel, that state, to Miss Laura Ann Ludington, who was born in Kent, New
York, on the 26th of January, 1814. He brought his bride back with him to
Milwaukee and there they made their home until 1852. In the fall of that
year they removed to Hustisford, where Mr. Hustis began the operation of a
grist mill, after having previously operated a sawmill. In 1846 he built the
dam across Rock river at Hustisford and it is still standing. He was the
owner of a section of land on which the village was built and which remained
in his possession for an extended period. In 1868 the family removed to
Milwaukee but continued to also maintain a residence at Hustisford during
the nineteen years of their connection with the former city, following which
they returned to Dodge county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Hustis were born five
JOHN HUSTIS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
401
children, namely: Mary Elizabeth, who passed away in 1883; Josephine Lewisa,
who is a resident of Milwaukee; Amelia Augusta, who died at the age of two
years; Mrs. Florence L. Anthony; and Charles Joseph, who Was born on the
6th of November, 1861, and died on the 12th of March, 1897. The death of
Mr. Hustis occurred on the 19th of September, 1907, while his wife was called
to her final rest on the 27th of December, 1900. He was one of Wisconsin's
honored pioneers who left the deep impress of his individuality upon the history
of the state. He refused to allow his name to be used in connection with the
candidacy for the office of Wisconsin's first governor and thereafter refused all
other offers of political preferment, not caring to enter public life. The village
of Hustisford, which he founded, lacked but one vote of being made the state
capital. It was Mr. Hustis who delivered the first 4th of July oration in Mil-
waukee and, although declining office, he was ever a public-spirited citizen and
one who took active and helpful part in promoting the welfare and upbuilding
of his adopted state. His political allegiance was given to the republican party.
In 1840 he built the first brick block in Milwaukee on the ground now occupied
by the Senn building and he was register of canal lands there, appointed by the
governor. His labors were indeed an effective force for general improvement
in that city as well as in Dodge county and both Milwaukee and Hustisford felt
honored to number this worthy and prominent pioneer among their citizens.
RUDOLPH GUENTHER.
Rudolph Guenther is numbered among the native sons of Dodge county and
among the successful, energetic and enterprising farmers of Calamus township.
Here he is cultivating a fine tract of land of two hundred and forty acres, gain-
ing success as a general farmer by modern and systematic methods. He was
born August 12, 1865, and is a son of Gustavus and Minnie (Kirchberg) Guen-
ther, natives of Germany. The father was born in Baden in 1825 and came to
America in 1846, settling on a farm in Calamus township. This property he
cultivated and improved, built new barns and outbuildings and installed modern
equipment, bringing his land to a high state of development. His wife was born
fn Germany, June 22, 1830. and their marriage occurred in Watertown, Wis-
consin, in 1849. They became the parents of fourteen children. Gustavus, born
January 1, 1850, married Mary Gutgesell and they live at Brandon, Minnesota.
Charles, born April 28, 1851, married Maggie Beam and they reside at Garfield,
Minnesota. Lawrence, born September 10, 1852, married Minnie Ready and
they live in Beaver Dam. Amelia, born August 26, 1854, married Robert Hanf
and they reside in Floyd, Iowa. Albert, born December 25, 1855, married Sarah
Croft and they reside in Calamus township, Wisconsin. Annie, born July 6,
1857, married Theodore Young, of Beaver Dam. Christine, born September 2,
1859, died on the 19th of September, 1880, and is buried in Cemetery No. 1 at
Calamus. Leonard, born May 13, 1861, married Effie George and they reside
at Alden, Minnesota. Henry, born June 30, 1863, married Clara Yanka on
March 3, 1892, and her death occurred on September 15 of the same year. On
November 7, 1894, he married Emma Altschwager and they are residing in
vol n-n
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Calamus. Barney, bom August 23, 1867, was married to Rosa Bauman on
October 26, 1891, and they are residents of Wausau. Mary, born March 8,
1870, married Henry Herdrich on October 28, 1891, and they are making their
home in Chicago. Frank, born May 24, 1872, passed away on April 21, 1874,
and is buried in the cemetery at Calamus. Rose, born April 13, 1876, was mar-
ried on September 23, 1896, to George Bonner, a resident of Calamus.
Rudolph, our subject, was educated in the public schools of Calamus town-
ship and has been identified with agricultural pursuits since his early childhood.
He is now the owner of one of the finest farms in this section of the state, com-
prising two hundred and forty acres of productive land, two hundred acres of
which are under cultivation. Upon this he does general farming and specializes
in raising all grades of cattle. He has made his enterprise successful by hard
and continued labor, making practical application of the knowledge which he
acquired by personal experience in his youth.
On October 21, 1896, Mr. Guenther was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude
Edgerton, a daughter of William and Helen (Martin) Edgerton, residents of
Beaver Dam. The father was born in Rome, New York, December 5, 1830,
and died in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, on the 5th of February, 1878. The mother
was born in Westernville, New York, August 9, 1832, and died on February
19, 1910. Mr. and Mrs. Guenther are the parents of four children, all of whom
reside at home : Jennie May, born September 23, 1897 ; Harry Rudolph, born
August 19, 1899; Roy Howard, born February 23, 1903; and Oscar Clarence,
born December 4, 1905.
In his political views Mr. Guenther is a consistent democrat but takes no
very active part in public affairs, preferring to devote his time entirely to agri-
cultural pursuits. His methods are new and progressive and his business ability
of a high order. Success has come to him as a natural result of intelligent labor
along systematic lines and he is numbered among the substantial agriculturists
of the county.
WILLIAM H. MESSER.
William H. Messer owns a well improved farm of one hundred and eight
acres on section 24, Beaver Dam township, and is well known as a general agri-
culturist and stock-raiser. He has been a resident of Wisconsin all his life and
is widely and favorably known as one of the substantial and progressive resi-
dents of Dodge county. He was born August 2, 1872, in Richfield township,
Washington county, and is a son of John and Eva (Harlos) Messer, the former
a native of Germany and the latter of Wisconsin. Their marriage occurred in
Washington county and they lived in that section until 1883, when John Messer
purchased land in Trenton township, Dodge county, where he cultivated the
soil until his death, which occurred in 1900, when he was sixty years of age.
His wife is still living and makes her home in Beaver Dam. She is now sixty-
two years old.
William H. Messer was the second in a family of eleven children. He was
educated in the public schools of Dodge county and remained at home until he
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
was twenty-five years of age. In that year he established himself as an inde-
pendent agriculturist, fanning his portion of the old homestead until 1910, when
he sold his holdings and moved to the city of Beaver Dam. Here he resided
until February, 1912, moving at that time upon his present property, which he
has since operated. He does general farming and raises graded cattle and pure-
bred Chester White and Poland China hogs. He also operates a dairy, milking
nine cows and selling to a neighboring cheese factory. He has all of his land
under cultivation and intelligently improved. He has his acres planted in hay
and grain, which he sells in the Wisconsin markets.
In 1898 Mr. Messer was united in marriage to Miss Emma G. Haase, a
daughter of Charles and Wilhelmina (Wetzel) Haase, natives of Germany. The
parents came to the United States about the year 1862 and settled in Dodge
county, Wisconsin. The father purchased land in Trenton township and carried
on general agricultural pursuits successfully until 1906, when he sold the property
to his son and moved to the village of Fox Lake, where he is now living retired
in his sixty-ninth year. Mrs. Messer is the fifth in a family of eight children
and was born on the 6th of March, 1878. She and her husband have three
children: Leona, born November 8, 1899; Lawrence, whose birth occurred on
January 19, 1902; and Ralph, born October 9, 1905.
In his political views Mr. Messer is a consistent republican and has served
on the board of supervisors for Trenton township. He and his family are
members of St. Steven's Lutheran church of Beaver Dam. During the fifteen
years in which he has been an independent agriculturist Mr. Messer has taken an
active and helpful, part in the work of improvement and progress which has
been carried forward along his special line .of activity. He has directed his own
career so successfully that he is today classed among the prominent farmers of
Dodge county and has made his progressive and systematic labors the basis of
distinct prosperity.
JOHN W. HUGHES.
John W. Hughes is carrying on general farming and stock-raising upon one
hundred and sixty acres of land in Calamus township, constituting his home-
stead, and by practical methods and well directed energy is bringing the enter-
prise to a gratifying degree of success. He is well known in this section where
he has been a resident since he was a boy of fourteen and where he has been
identified with progressive farming for many years. He was born January 1,
1844, in Angleshirc, North Wales, and is a son of William J. and Ellen (Wil-
liams) Hughes, natives of that country. The father was born in 1799 and came
to America in 1858, settling immediately on a farm in Calamus township, where
the subject of this sketch now resides. He operated the enterprise successfully
until his death, which occurred on February 22, 1871.' His wife was born in
1812 and their marriage occurred in Wales in 1840. They became the parents
of two children: Margaret, who was born in Wales in 1841 and who died there
at the age of three years; and John W., the subject of this sketch.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
John W. Hughes was fourteen years of age when he settled upon his farm
in Calamus township and he has resided in this section since that time. He
early became acquainted with the details of modern agriculture by personal
experience in assisting his father. He took care of his parents in their declining
years and upon the death of William Hughes inherited the property, which he
has since operated and improved. His land comprises one hundred and sixty
acres, one hundred and forty of which are under cultivation. He raises cattle
of all grades and specializes in the breeding of Poland China hogs. He is a
hard and steady worker with a long experience in the best and most practical
farming methods and he has by industry and well directed activity made his
land productive to its fullest extent, gaining for himself a distinct place in
agricultural circles.
In 1872 Mr. Hughes was united in marriage to Miss Jane Jones, a daughter
of William R. and Elizabeth Jones, of Calamus, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs.
Hughes became the parents of five children: Nellie, who was born June 24,
1874, and who married John Johnston, of Calamus; William, who was born
July 16, 1876, and who lives at home; Daniel, of Calamus, who was born May
8, 1879, and who married Emma Henning; Elizabeth, who was born October
31, 1882, and who married William Bachmann, their home being in Elba town-
ship, Dodge county; and Roland, who was born October 14, 1886.
In his political affiliations Mr. Hughes is a consistent republican but beyond
casting his vote at each election takes no active part in public affairs. He keeps
himself abreast of modern agricultural advancement by his identification with
the Wisconsin Agricultural Association. He has achieved his success by hard
work and industry and by his thoroughly practical business qualifications, and
his fine farm, intelligently operated and highly productive, stands as an evidence
of the value of his activity.
Herman H. Butterbrodt is a native son of Dodge county and is carrying on
prosperous and progressive general farming upon seventy-three acres of land
on sections 23 and 26, Beaver Dam township, following the most modern and
systematic principles, and making his individual prosperity count as a public
resource. He was born in the township in whichhe is now residing on June 7,
1876, and is a son of August and Minnie (Koemg) Butterbrodt, natives of Ger-
many. They were reared and educated in the fatherland and their marriage
occurred in that country. They came to America about the year 1864, settling
immediately in Dodge county, where the father purchased land upon which he
is living today.
Herman H. Butterbrodt was the ninth in a family of ten children. He was
reared at home and educated in the district schools of Dodge county. During
his boyhood he was actively connected with the minor duties of his father's
enterprise learning thus at an early date the best and most practical methods of
agriculture. He remained at home until he was twenty-eight years of age and
then commenced independent life for himself, operating the place upon which
HERMAN H. BUTTERBRODT.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
405
he now resides. He does general farming and is interested in stock-raising,
making a specialty of breeding pure-blooded Berkshire hogs. He feeds his stock
upon the hay which he raises in his fields but markets his barley and oats. He
operates a modern and sanitary dairy, milking from eight to ten cows and selling
the products of this branch of his enterprise to the neighboring cheese factory.
He has made extensive improvements upon his property, has fenced his fields,
built granaries, silos and other outbuildings. In 1906 he erected a fine barn
twenty-eight feet wide by fifty-eight feet long, with cement floors and patent
stanchions and equipped with modern accessories. The residence in which he
lives he erected in 1904 making it up-to-date in every particular. It is heated
by furnace and supplied with pure water from a well drilled upon the premises.
In 1906 Mr. Butterbrodt was united in marriage to Miss Jennie McMillan,
a daughter, of Alexander and Louisa (Zeiske) McMillan, natives of Wisconsin.
Her father was of Scotch ancestory and her mother of German descent. They
were married in Beaver Dam and are living today in Westford township, where
the father follows general farming. He is well known in the section in which
he lives and is an honored veteran of the Civil war. Mrs. Butterbrodt was the
third in a family of eleven children and was born on March 24, 1886. She and
her husband have one son, Dallas A., born January 10, 191 1.
In politics Mr. Butterbrodt keeps himself entirely independent of lines arid
parties, voting according to his personal convictions. He was a member of the
school board for three years and served for one year as clerk of that body. He
and his wife attend the Assembly Presbyterian church, of which Mrs. Butter-
brodt is a member. He has kept abreast of the steady advancement which agri-
culture has made along systematic and scientific lines. He has added personal
experience to his knowledge and his industry and intelligence have been rewarded
by a beautiful tract of land every acre of which is brought to its highest point
of productiveness.
W. W. WILLIAMS.
W. W. Williams owns a one hundred and sixty-acre farm in Calamus town-
ship upon which he has lived since childhood and upon this property he is carry-
ing on general farming and stock-raising and meeting with a success which is
the natural result'of his industry and diligence. He is a native of Wales, having
been born in Carnarvon, on March 15, 1835, and he came to this country with
his parents when he was ten years of age. They settled in 1845 m Calamus
township upon the tract of land which Mr. Williams is now operating. Here
the subject of this sketch grew to manhood. He received his education in the
district schools and when not engaged with his books aided his father in the
work of improvement and development, gaining thus a specialized knowledge of
practical details of farming. His property now comprises one hundred and
sixty acres, one hundred and forty-five of which are under cultivation. He
carries on general farming and specializes in the breeding and raising of all
grades of hogs and has been very successful with his Duroc Jersey breed. He
brings to his activities aiong agricultural lines personal experience which is an
406
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
important factor in his success. His soil is fertile and productive and he gathers
rich harvests each year as a reward for the intelligent care and labor which he
bestows upon his place.
On June 1, 1860, Mr. Williams was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Jones,
who was born in Wales, in November, 1835. She is a daughter of Henry and
Elizabeth Jones, who came to America in 1845 and has lived since her childhood
in Calamus township. She and her husband became the parents of seven chil-
dren, two of whom died in infancy and are buried in Bethel cemetery. The
surviving members are: John, who was born August 9, 1861, and who married
Miss Kate Hughes of Elba township, and is residing in Oshkosh; Henry J. f
whose birth occurred August 20, 1864, and who lives at home; Mary E., born
June 23, 1868, who married O. E. Griffiths, by whom she has four children,
Howell, Ann, Ellen and Dorothy; William C, who was born October 30, 1870,
and who married Miss Elsie Preston of DePere, with whom he is residing in
Green Bay, where he is employed as telegraph operator, by the Chicago & North-
western Railroad ; and Robert E., who was born on February 26, 1877, and who
lives at home.
Mr. Williams is a devout adherent of the Calvinistic Methodist religion and
serves as deacon in Bethel church of Calamus township. He has sought no
success beyond prosperity as an agriculturist. He is well versed in the details
of farming and is always guided in his business relations by keen and discrim-
inating judgment. His property is highly developed and richly productive and
is improved to its highest point, paying tribute to his care and skill. Its con-
dition ranks him as'an individual force in the growth and upbuilding of a great
farming section.
SAMUEL C. KELLER.
One of the most enterprising and successful of the many practical, efficient
and progressive farmers who are making Dodge county a fertile and productive
section is Samuel C. Keller, now farming one hundred and sixty acres of land
in Beaver Dam township, constituting his homestead, and meeting with a measure
of success which has been continuous since the beginning of his agricultural
career. He was born in the section where he now resides on October 29, 1885,
and is a son of John and Margaret (Keil) Keller, the former a native of Ger-
many and the latter of Pennsylvania. They moved to Dodge county after their
marriage and are both living today in Trenton township.
Samuel C. Keller is the third of eight children born to his parents. He was
educated in the district schools of Dodge county and remained at home until
his marriage which occurred in 1907. He then moved upon his present property
where he carries on general farming, stock-raising and dairying. He has most
of his acres planted in hay and grain which he feeds to his fine herd of graded
Shorthorn and Holstein cattle and his pure-bred Duroc Jersey hogs. His farm
is ideally equipped for dairy and stock-raising purposes, being supplied with pure
water from a drilled well. There are many fine barns and outbuildings all of
which were erected before Mr. Keller took charge of the property, by one or
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
another of his ancestors. He has his fields conveniently fenced with barbed
wire and his farm is in all respects a modern and up-to-date enterprise. He
specializes in the operation of his dairy, keeping this branch of his establishment
clean and sanitary. He milks on an average of fifteen cows and supplies the
neighboring creameries and cheese factories with milk of a high quality.
In 1907 Mr. Keller was united in marriage to Miss Alvina Bayer, a daughter
of Francis M. and Jane Elizabeth (Keys) Bayer, natives of Burnett township.
Mrs. Keller's grandparents on her father's side were natives of Germany and
her maternal grandparents were of English and French descent. Her father
and mother were married in Waupun and are today living in Beaver Dam. They
had five children, of whom Mrs. Keller is the second in order of birth, her natal
day being February 28, 1888. She and her husband have one daughter, Doris
Jane, who was born May 8, 1908.
In his political views Mr. Keller is a consistent democrat, but is not unusually
active in local affairs, preferring to devote his time to the conduct of his important
agricultural enterprise. He and his wife are members of the German Lutheran
church of Beaver Dam. He is an intelligent and efficient farmer, interested in
his work and desirous of improving it and although he is still a young man he
has added something year by year to his own prosperity and to the methods of
practical and productive agriculture.
JOHN T. EVANS.
One hundred and twenty acres of land in Calamus township, well improved
and intelligently cultivated, is the contribution which John T. Evans has made
to the agricultural development of his native section. His farm is situated on
section 16, and is one of the attractive properties of the township. Mr. Evans
is well and favorably known in this part of the state where he was born No-
vember 25, 1873. His father was a native of Wales and was left an orphan
in his early childhood. In 1839 when he was twelve years old he crossed the
Atlantic with an older sister and settled in Elba township, where he grew to
manhood. After he had attained his majority he was employed as a stage driver
between Madison and Green Bay and followed this occupation for five years.
On May 25, 1855, he married Miss Annie Prichard, a daughter of William J.
Prichard of Elba township and immediately afterward located on the farm where
his son is now residing. Upon this property he carried on successful general
farming until 1904, when he retired from active life and moved to May wood,
Illinois, where he now makes his home with his daughter. His wife passed
away in 1886 and is buried in Bethel cemetery in Elba township. They became
the parents of eight children: Mary, whose birth occurred on March 12, 1856,
and who died in 1874 and is buried in Bethel cemetery; Thomas, who was born
on February 28, 1858, and who died in 1864; Ellen J., whose birth occurred on
the 22d of February, i860; and who married Ellis E. Jones of West Pullman,
Illinois; Margaret, whose birth occurred on the 8th of November, 1862, and
who became the wife of Edmund Pritchard of Maywood, Illinois; William H.,
who was born on the 7th of September, 1865, and who married Miss Sergina
408
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Servison, and is residing in Spokane, Washington; Annie J., whose birth
occurred on the 9th of January, 1868, and who became the wife of R. M. Owens,
of Randolph ; John T., the subject of this sketch ; and Robert R., who was born
on June 25, 1875, and who married Louisa Gadson of Beaver Dam.
John T. Evans was educated in the public schools of Dodge county and his
entire life has been spent upon his father's farm. He aided in the minor duties
in his boyhood and after he had reached maturity became active in every depart-
ment of general agriculture. He and his father made all the improvements upon
the property and owing to their efforts it is one of the finest tracts of land in
this section of the state. It comprises one hundred and twenty acres, one hun-
dred and five of which are tillable and upon this he carries on general farming,
following progressive and modern methods. He specializes in the breeding and
raising of cattle of all grades and is known throughout Calamus township as an
expert judge of stock.
Mr. Evans was united in marriage to Miss Laura Thiede, a daughter of
Charles Thiede of Calamus township and they became the parents of one son,
Arthur Robert, who was born on May 11, 1906, and who lives at home. Mr.
Evans is numbered among the progressive and representative farmers of the sec-
tion in which he lives. His property is intelligently operated and responds to
his careful supervision and practical methods.
Sidney M. Randall, who owns and operates a farm of ninety acres in Chester
township, makes a specialty of dairying and has some of the best stock in this
part of the state. His birth occurred in Hustisford, Dodge county, on the 12th
of May, 1859, his parents being Barber B. and Mary (Clafing) Randall. The
father, a native of New York and an agriculturist by occupation, came to Wis-
consin in early manhood and settled near Hustisford, this county, on a tract of
land which he purchased from the government. As the years passed he augmented
his holdings by additional purchase until at one time he owned eight or nine
hundred acres. He also owned an orange grove in Florida and spent the winter
seasons in that state, where he passed away. It was near Hustisford, in this
county, that he wedded Miss Mary Clafing, by whom he had six children, as
follows: Charles, who is a resident of Minnesota; Sidney M., of this review;
Ernest, living at Hustisford, Wisconsin ; Walter and Lucettie, both of whom are
deceased; and Frank, living in Minnesota. By a former marriage Mr. Randall
had two children, namely: Myron, who is a resident of Minnesota; and Albert,
deceased. The father was married a third time and the three children of that
union were as follows: Belle and Barber, both of whom are deceased; and
Estelle, who is the wife of Charles Friday.
Sidney M. Randall attended the schools of Hustisford in the acquirement
of an education and subsequently worked on the home farm with his father
until the latter's demise. lie remained on the old homestead for two years
longer or until the time of his marriage and then purchased and located upon a
farm of one hundred acres in Chester township. He has since sold ten acres of
SIDNEY M. RANDALL.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
409
the place and this tract is now occupied by the state asylum. Mr. Randall makes
a specialty of dairying and has about forty head of pure-bred Holstein cattle,
owning some of the best stock in this part of the state. His cattle have been
exhibited at a number of fairs.
On the 26th of March, 1891, Mr. Randall was united in marriage to Miss
Elizabeth Goodyear, her parents being John and Christian Goodyear, the former
a native of Washington county, Wisconsin, and the latter of Germany. The
mother of Mrs. Randall was but a child when she came to the United States with
her parents, who settled near Lebanon, Wisconsin. To Mr. and Mrs. Randall
have been born four children, namely : Charles Mitchell, whose birth occurred
on the 9th of August, 1895 ; Genevieve Adele, whose natal day was October 7,
1897; Georgiana, deceased; and Eva Elizabeth, born January 5, 1902. In his
political views Mr. Randall is a stanch republican. He is widely known in Dodge
county, where he enjoys the respect and esteem of a large circle of acquaintances,
the majority of whom have known him since early boyhood
OTTO A. GEHRKE.
Otto A. Gehrke, who for five years has been identified with the printing
and newspaper interests of Mayville, was born in Fieritz, province of Pomerania,
Germany, on the 6th of August, 1879. He is a son of William and Wilhclmina
(Nack) Gehrke, who emigrated to the United States with their family in 1882.
They came direct to Dodge county, locating in Mayville, where the mother
passed away in 1893. The father is still living and is now employed in the
Northwestern Iron Company. Our subject is the eldest of six children born
to his parents.
Otto A. Gehrke was only three years of age when he accompanied his parents
on their removal to the United States. Practically his entire life has been passed
in Mayville, his education being acquired in the German parochial and public
schools. When old enough to decide upon a vocation he decided to learn the
printer's trade, and entered the office of the Dodge County Pioneer, where he
remained for seven years. He next took a position as accountant in the office
of the Northwestern Iron Company, remaining there until 1900. In the latter
year he resigned his position in order to accept the management of the Martin
Luther Printing Company of Boston, Massachusetts. He was the head of this
enterprise until 1907 and in Au?ust of that year he returned to Mayville and
purchased the printing establishment founded by Henry Spicring, at one time
proprietor of the Dodge County Pioneer. Together with four others he has
profitably conducted this plant for five years. The paper, which has always
been an English publication, was founded in 1890 by Mr. Spiering and is issued
on Thursday of each week. Its circulating list carries six hundred names.
On the 23d of May, 1004, Mr. Gehrke was united in marriage to Miss Marie
Wilhelm, a daughter of G. and M. (Meyer) Wilhelm, both of whom are de-
ceased, the mother having passed away in 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Gehrke have three
children: Leo, who was born during their residence in Boston; and Esther and
Hugo, who are natives of Mayville.
410
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. and Mrs. Gehrke are members of St. John's Lutheran church and are
rearing their children in the faith of that denomination. He is a diligent and
enterprising young man of laudable ambition and more than average business
ability as is being evidenced by the development of his interests.
Joseph T. Snyder is operating a fine farm of three hundred and twenty
acres on section 28, Beaver Dam township and has two hundred and twenty-
five acres under cultivation. He is a substantial, modern and progressive farmer,
interested in each new development in agriculture and his property is well
equipped, highly cultivated and in excellent condition. He is well known, in this
district, having been a resident since he was fifteen years of age and is influen-
tial in agricultural circles because he has cultivated the soil continuously since
1859, with the exception of five years spent in the Beaver Dam Woolen Mills.
He was born in Norwich, Ontario, Canada, November 19, 1844, and is a son of
Elias and Elizabeth (McLees) Snyder, natives of Dutchess county, New York.
Their marriage occurred in Ontario and they lived and died in Canada.
Joseph T. Snyder is the eighth in a family of nine children. He completed
an education begun in Canada in the public schools of Wisconsin and in Way-
land Academy at Beaver Dam. His residence in Dodge county dates from
1859, when he joined his brother in this section. He spent nine years in Illinois
after completing his education, farming independently, but returned to Beaver
Dam at the end of that time. He obtained a position as clerk in the office of the
woolen mills of this city and after five years of this occupation moved upon the
farm which he is now operating and has maintained a continuous residence upon
his property since that time. He carries on general farming and has been suc-
cessful because he has always adhered to systematic methods, his expert knowl-
edge and long experience being factors in his prosperity.
Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Mary Esther Shaw, a daughter
of Alexander A. and Ann D. (Close) Shaw, natives of Cayuga county, New
York. Her father came to Wisconsin about the year 1842 and was among the
very earliest settlers in the state. He took up a tract of one hundred and sixty
acres of government land for which he paid one dollar and twenty-five cents an
acre. He settled within the present city limits of Beaver Dam which was called
at that time Grubbville. He improved and operated his property and also fol-
lowed his trade of surveyor, doing work of this kind in all parts of the state.
He made extensive improvements upon his farm, built barns, outbuildings and a
comfortable residence and here he remained until his death which occurred in
1851. His wife later married Moses E. Stevens, who passed away in 1882. Mrs.
Stevens survived her husband until January 3, 1911.
Mrs. Snyder is the eldest of three children and was born on December 23,
1846. She and her husband became the parents of two sons and one daughter.
The eldest, William, is married and is making his home with our subject. He is
a graduate of the Beaver Dam high school and from his early youth has been
intensely interested in natural history. He has made a special study of this
JOSEPH T. SNYDER.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
411
science and has made a collection of birds, animals, and insects and Indian relics,
which is one of the finest in this section of the state. He accompanied Mr.
Mcllheny upon an eighteen months' expedition into Alaska, traveling in the
interests of the University of Pennsylvania and the Smithsonian Institution. The
party started upon, their journey before the outbreak of the Spanish- American
war and hostilities had ceased before their return. They were so cut off from
civilization that no rumor of the conflict reached them until their arrival in
Wisconsin. They encountered many hardships and dangers, traveling on a sail-
ing vessel, the Jeanne, the largest of a fleet of nine boats of the same kind.
The expedition was nearly lost but was rescued by a government relief squad
under the command of Lieutenant Jarvis, who traveled overland, driving reindeer
and reached the party when they had only three days' rations left. The second
child born to Mr. and Mrs. Snyder is Clara, a bookkeeper in a Beaver Dam
business office. Their youngest son was Charles S., who died in childhood.
Mr. Snyder gives his political allegiance to the republican party but although
he is intelligently interested in public affairs never seeks office, preferring to
devote his entire time to farming. He is prominent in the Masonic order, holding
membership in the chapter and council. His son William, also affiliated with
this organization and is past master of his lodge. Both are members of the
Royal Arcanum.
Mr. Snyder is recognized as one of the substantial and representative farmers
and stock-raisers in Dodge county. He is practical in his methods, specializing
in feeding and fattening hogs which he sells in the Wisconsin markets. He
has many acres of his land planted in suitable grains and is also extensively
interested in the operation of his modern and sanitary dairy. He keeps for
this purpose a fine herd of cows, selling his product to the Beaver Dam Creamery.
He is an expert judge of graded Shorthorn cattle and deals in these animals.
In all his business relations he is thoroughly reliable and straightforward, mani-
festing that progressive spirit which is making modern farming a different and
more scientific occupation.
NELSON BONNER.
Nelson Bonner owns and operates one of the finest farms in Dodge county,
comprising one hundred and eighty acres of excellent land on sections 13 and 24,
Westford township, which was his father's original purchase upon arriving in
this district in pioneer times. Mr. Bonner has been engaged in agricultural pur-
suits since the beginning of his active career and is distinctly successful, his
energy and enterprise having been rewarded every year by crops of a fine quality.
He is recognized as one of the leading farmers in Westford township where he
has resided since his birth and has based his prosperity upon intelligently directed
activity and progressive methods. He was born on the farm which he now
operates, March 11, 1875, a son of John and Elizabeth Ann (Graham) Bonner,
natives of England. The father was born in Lincolnshire, April 27, 1822, and
came to America in 1853. He made the journey alone and settled immediately
in Milwaukee and after establishing his home he sent for his parents and his
412
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
brothers and sisters, who joined him in this city some time afterward. In
Milwaukee the father of our subject worked in the employ of Mr. Layton, as a
butcher and after a short period in this line of work came to Westford town-
ship where he purchased land. He gradually improved this property, built a
barn, and outbuildings and brought it to a high state of cultivation. When he
retired from active life he moved to Fox Lake, where he died May 5, 1906.
He was among the earliest pioneers in Dodge county and was fond of relating
his experiences on first coming to Westford township. In those days he hauled
his wheat to the Milwaukee markets, a distance of seventy-five miles and could
sometimes find a sale for it and sometimes not. In one instance he traded a
load of wheat for an overcoat and often sold large amounts of this grain for
barely enough to pay his expenses on the return journey. He made these trips
profitable, however, by bringing back groceries and dry-goods which he sold to the
merchants of Beaver Dam. John Bonner, the father of our subject married
September 29, 1857, Miss Elizabeth Ann Graham, who was born in London,
April 30, 1834, and who came to America in 1855. Her father had served in the
British army and one of her brothers was also a member of the English forces
at the time of the Crimean war and was killed at the battle of Balaklava. Her
father died in London and Mrs. Bonner made the journey to America with her
uncle. Samuel Graham, and his wife. . They settled near Randolph, Wisconsin,
but afterward moved to Nebraska where Mr. Graham passed away, May 26,
191 2. He is buried in the Fox Lake cemetery. After John Bonner came to
America his parents, Thomas and Betsy Bonner, and his brothers and sisters,
settled near him in Westford township and here his father and mother passed
away and are buried in the Westford cemetery, just south of the homestead.
In their family were eight children. John, the eldest son was the father of our
subject. James was born in 1824 and married Jane King, of Fox Lake, Wiscon-
sin. They lived in Westford for a number of years and in that section James
Bonner died, April 2, 1911. He is buried at Fox Lake. The two next in the
order of birth died in infancy. Next was a daughter, Jane, who was born in Eng-
land, and married John Prescott. She has also passed away and is buried in
Westford cemetery. Anna and George, twins, were born in 1834 and George
died some time afterward and is buried in cemetery No. 1, Calamus township.
Anna married William Croft and lives in Beaver Dam. Samuel was born June
6, 1836, and married Miss Elizabeth Evans, June 14, 1863. He lived in West-
ford township until his death which occurred December 20, 1908, and he is
buried in the Beaver Dam cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. John Bonner became the
parents of seven children. Albert was born September 18, 1858, grew to matur-
ity and married and passed away August 21, 1879. He is buried in the Fox
Lake cemetery. Robert Thomas, who was born October 20, i860, married
Miss Abbie Stone, February 28, 1900, and lives in Antigo. Victoria was born
February 18, 1863, and died November 24, 1879. She is buried in Waushara
cemetery at Fox Lake. Marmaduke was born January 10, 1865, and married
Nellie Peverly and lives in Los Angeles, California. William was born April
18, 1868, and died May 9, 1873, and is buried in Fox Lake cemetery. Orrin
was born November 3, 1871, and died September 13, 1872. He also is buried at
Fox Lake. The youngest child born to Mr. and Mrs. John Bonner is Nelson,
the subject of this sketch.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
413
Nelson Bonner was educated in the public schools of his native section and
spent his childhood upon his father's farm. He is now operating the home-
stead, comprising one hundred and eighty acres of land, one hundred and fifty-
five of which are tillable. Upon this he carries on general agricultural pursuits
and also raises cattle of all grades. His farm is one of the finest in Dodge
county, intelligently improved and equipped with all modern conveniences and
accessories, its excellent condition ranking its operator among the representa-
tive and substantia] farmers of his district.
On April 8, 1902, Mr. Bonner was united in marriage to Miss Adella Klei-
foth, a daughter of William Kleifoth, of Mayville. Mrs. Bonner's grandmother,
Anna Humbach, was bom in Germany in 1827, and came to America in 1850,
settling in the village of Theresa and later in Mayville. Afterward she spent two
years in Cincinnati, Ohio, and then returned to Theresa, moving to Madison,
Wisconsin, in 1910, where she is still residing. After the marriage of Mr. and
Mrs. Nelson Bonner they came to live on the Bonner homestead where they
have resided since that time. They have four children: John Thomas, who was
born January 31, 1903, and who lives at home; Nelson Alfred, whose birth
occurred June II, 1905, and who is also with his parents; Richard Charles,
who was born January 15, 1908, and who lives at home; and Beatrice Leona,
whose birth occurred on the 1st of March, 1909.
Mr. Bonner gives his allegiance to the republican party but he has never been
active as an office seeker. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America
and of the Tribe of Ben Hur and is well known in fraternal circles of his dis-
trict. He stands today as a representative of all that is progressive, efficient
and systematic in modern agriculture. His fine farm is intelligently managed,
thoroughly equipped and flourishing, and operated along the most up-to-date
lines. His methods have won their natural success and he is justly entitled to
the prosperity which has come to him and which entitles him to a place among
the men who are raising the standards of agriculture in Dodge county.
JAMES DERIVAN.
James Derivan, who devotes his attention to the pursuits of general farm-
ing and stock-raising, is the owner of a highly improved and model farm of
one hundred and five acres on section 6, Trenton township. His birth occurred
in that township on the 30th of November, 1867, his parents being John and
Margaret (Markey) Derivan, both of whom were natives of Ireland and came
to this country in early life. The father accompanied his parents on their
emigration to the United States in 1847, the family home being established in
Dodge county, Wisconsin, and here he subsequently purchased government land.
In 1854 the mother of our subject came to the United States with her mother
to join her father, who had crossed the Atlantic a few years before and had
established a home in Dodge county. John Derivan and Margaret Markey
were married here and began their domestic life on a farm in Trenton township,
where they continued to reside until death claimed them. Mr. Derivan passed
away in 1889. at the age of sixty years, while his wife died in 1892, when fifty-
414
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
eight years of age. Their remains were interred in St. Mary's cemetery, in
Trenton township. John Derivan was a resident of Dodge county for more than
four decades and gained an extensive circle of friends here by reason of his
upright and honorable life.
James Derivan, who was the fourth in order of birth in a family of nine
children and was a young man of twenty-two years at the time of his father's
demise, purchased the interest of the other heirs in the homestead farm and
has always remained thereon. He is engaged in general farming and stock-
raising and makes a specialty of the raising of pure bred Poland China hogs,
having more than one hundred head at the present time. He also has about fif-
teen head of high-grade Holstein cows and sells milk to the creamery. All of
his land is tillable and he feeds all his hay and grain. As a stockman he breeds
Percheron horses. In 1895 he erected a barn, thirty-two by fifty-six feet, with
cement floors and other modern features. In 1910 he erected an attractive and
up-to-date residence with all modern improvements, including acetylene lights,
water heating arrangements and air pressure. Water for all purposes is sup-
plied from drilled wells. In all branches of his business he has been most suc-
cessful, for he has carried on his affairs in a careful, systematic and methodical
manner, while at the same time he has not been lacking in that spirit of progress
which is manifest in agricultural circles at the present time.
On the 26th of November, 1902, Mr. Derivan was united in marriage to
Miss Alice White, who was born on the 7th of July, 1875, and was the second
in order of birth in a family of three children. Her father died when she was
but a child and her mother afterward became the wife of W. F. Halstead, of
Dodge county. Both Mr. and Mrs. Halstead are still living here. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Derivan have been born two children, the elder dying in infancy. The
other is Claude Francis, whose birth occurred on the 13th of January, 1906.
In politics Mr. Derivan is a democrat and at present holds the office of town-
ship treasurer, discharging the duties of that position in a commendable and
efficient manner. Fraternally he is identified with the Catholic Order of
Foresters and is now and for the past ten years has been chief ranger of the
local court. He and his wife are devout communicants of St. Mary's Catholic
church at Fox Lake. His many excellent traits of character have won him an
extensive circle of friends and he is well known and highly esteemed throughout
the county in which his entire life has been spent.
GOTTHARD F. BATSCH.
Progress and enterprise as elements in his farming methods have rewarded
Gotthard F. Batsch by agricultural success of a substantial kind. He is culti-
vating one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 36, Burnett township,
which by careful and systematic work he has made into a model, present-day
farm. He was born in Mayville, September 19, 1856, and is a son of Frederick
and Carolina (Werner) Batsch, natives of Schlesien. Germany. They came to
America in 1854 and located immediately in Mayville. where they resided for
ten years, later moving to Horicon.
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
415
Gotthard F. Batsch is second in a family of five children. He received his
education in the country schools and in the public schools of Horicon. He
remained at home all his life and has been engaged in farming during the entire
period, although for eighteen seasons he extended his activities to include thresh-
ing, operating a threshing outfit in conjunction with agricultural pursuits. He is
now the owner of one hundred and twenty acres on section 36, Burnett township,
and is a successful and prosperous man. His land is entirely enclosed with
strong fences and has natural drainage. It is a fine piece of property, rich and
productive, and its natural advantages have been conserved and utilized by intelli-
gent methods of operation. Mr. Batsch makes a specialty of stock, raising high-
grade Holstein cattle for dairy purposes and Poland China hogs for the local
markets. He believes in up-to-date farm buildings and has erected upon his prop-
erty a fine barn, thirty feet by sixty feet, two tool sheds, a woodshed and a pig
sty, the latter being sixteen feet by twenty-five feet. He resides in a com-
fortable and pleasant eight-room house which he erected and equipped with all
modern comforts and conveniences. He is not only an enterprising and success-
ful farmer but an able and progressive citizen.
Mr. Batsch was married on April 10, 1894, to Miss Louise Schwahn, a daugh-
ter of 'August and Johanne (Michael) Schwahn, residents of Dodge county.
To Mr. and Mrs. Batsch were born seven children : Delia, who is attending the
Horicon high school ; Arthur, who died at the age of four months and eight days ;
Metha, whose death occurred when she was a year and two months old ; Selma,
who died at the age of ten years, two months and twenty-five days ; and Hilda,
Arnold and Walter, all at home.
In politics Mr. Batsch keeps himself independent of fines and parties, voting
for the man whom he considers best fitted for the office, and has served for three
years as pathmaster of Horicon. He is a stockholder in the Union Dairy Com-
pany, and he and his family affiliate with the German Lutheran church. His
individual labors are important in agricultural development because his private
prosperity has its source in standards of life and activity which have a universal
acceptance.
MRS. REBECCA EVANS.
Great and well deserved credit is given to the pioneers in Wisconsin who in
the early days of the settlement of the state faced hardships, privations and
arduous labor in the clearing and development of the land and who wrested from
a wilderness fertile and productive farms. Very little, however, is heard of the
wives of these men — the pioneer women who ably supplemented their husbands'
labors in the fields by almost unending work in the home and dairy. They also
faced the hardships and endured the privations and are entitled to equal credit
for the result. Prominent among women of this class in Dodge county is Mrs.
Rebecca Evans, the widow of David Evans, one of the early settlers in this sec-
tion. Mrs. Evans was born in England in 1850, her maiden name being Rebecca
Marden. She was an infant when she was brought to America by her parents,
who settled in Auburn, New York. A short time afterward, however, they came
416
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
to Wisconsin and took up their residence near Fox Lake, where Mrs. Evans
remained until her marriage in 1880. She wedded David Evans, of Westford,
Wisconsin, and after their marriage went to live upon his farm in Westford
township. During his life Mr. Evans was one of the most prosperous and suc-
cessful general agriculturists in this section and did much hy his work and efforts
to promote the general progress. He was born in Wales in 1832 and as a young
man came to Wisconsin, settling in Westford, where he bought land. For a short
time he lived with his cousin at Lake Emily, Wisconsin, but afterward moved
upon his farm, which he cleared of timber and developed and improved along
progressive lines. This property he afterward sold and took up his residence
upon a farm near Beaver Dam Lake in Westford township. He was twice mar-
ried, his first wife being Miss Elizabeth King, of Fox Lake, who died in 1873
and is buried in that, city. Mr. Evans married the subject of this review in 1880
and together they worked continuously for the advancement of his prosperity.
Mr. Evans cleared his farm in Westford township, made substantial improve-
ments upon it and from time to time erected the necessary buildings, making it
before his death in 1901 one of the finest agricultural properties in the section.
In his political views Mr. Evans was a stanch republican and took an active
interest in the affairs of the community. He was a devout adherent of the Baptist
church, holding his membership in Beaver Dam. It is men like him — men of
unfaltering industry and determination — to whom the state owes much of its
present wealth. He did able work in clearing the land and developing it into a
profitable farm. The value of his labors is unquestioned and he deserves great
credit for his successful accomplishment, but it is to women like Mrs. Rebecca
Evans to whom we must go for the influencing source of the work and success.
William J. Schwefel, one of the enterprising and progressive agriculturists
of Trenton township, who represents the third generation of his family in this
county, owns and operates a well improved farm of eighty acres on section 34.
His birth occurred in Lebanon township, on the 3d of July, 1869, his parents
being William and Wilhelmina (Heilman) Schwefel, who are mentioned at
greater length on another page of this work in connection with the sketch of
Otto F. Schwefel, a brother of our subject. He was the third in order of birth
in a family of twelve children and remained under the parental roof until twenty-
six years of age, when he purchased the farm which has been his home to the
present time. He devotes his attention to the pursuits of general farming, stock-
raising and dairying and sells the milk from sixteen cows to the cheese factory.
His cattle are graded Holstein and he has a registered male. He breeds to
Percheron horses and raises pure bred Chester White hogs for the market,
having twenty in his herd. Mr. Schwefel feeds all of his hay and grain. His
entire farm is tillable and all of the improvements thereon have been made by
him. There are cement floors in each of his buildings, which include a barn,
fifty by forty-two feet, that he erected in 1896. In 1899 he rebuilt his resi-
dence. Water for all purposes is supplied from drilled wells, and in fact the
WILLIAM J. SCHWEFEL.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
419
place is lacking in none of the improvements and conveniences of a model farm
of the twentieth century. He is a progressive man and at various times has
installed different modern equipments that have done away with much of the
drudgery and greatly facilitated the work of his farm. The several branches
of his business are proving sources of profit, for he is practical in his methods
and his industry is seemingly indefatigable.
On the 26th of May, 1895, Mr. Schwefel was united in marriage to Miss
Eliza S. Kuenzi, a daughter of G. M. and Amelia (Milke) Kuenzi, who are of
Swiss and German ancestry, respectively, and were born in Lebanon township,
Dodge county, Wisconsin. They now reside near Waupun in this county, G. M.
Kuenzi being sixty-six years of age, while his wife is sixty-one years old. Mrs.
Schwefel is the first born in a family of twelve children, her natal day being
July 3, 1874. By her marriage she has become the mother of three children, as
follows : Lillian E., who was born on the 24th of January, 1897 ; E. Douglas G.,
whose birth occurred on the 18th of March, 1899, and is the first of the fourth
generation of the Schwefel family in Dodge county; and William J., born May
2, 1908. The daughter is now in her junior year at the Fox Lake high school.
In his political views Mr. Schwefel is a democrat. The cause of education
has ever found in him a stanch champion and he has been a member of the
school board and clerk of the board for the past thirteen years. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the German Lutheran church, of Trenton
township, to which his wife and children also belong. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Schwefel have always lived in this county and well merit the regard and esteem
uniformly accorded them.
CHARLES A. KADING.
Charles A. Kading is practicing law in Watertown with his wife as a partner
and is recognized in this city as one of the able, progressive and representative
attorneys. He and his wife are both keen and able practitioners and the one
supplements the activities of the other in a most harmonious way. They have
been associated since being admitted to the bar and received their legal educa-
tion together and have since built up one of the most flourishing practices in
the city. Mr. Kading was born in Lowell township, January 14, 1874, a son of
Charles and Louisa (Bargans) Kading, natives of Germany, who came to
America in 1866 and located on a farm in Dodge county. The father worked
in the employ of others for some time but afterward bought land in Lowell
township, to which he added from time to time and upon which he lives today.
His wife passed away in 1881 and is buried in Lowell cemetery.
Charles A. Kading is the third in a family of five children. He received his
education in the public schools of his native section and afterward attended Wis-
consin State University at Madison during the summer seasons. In 1900 he was
graduated in law from Valparaiso University and was in the same year admitted
to the Wisconsin bar, since which time he has been practicing law in Watertown
in partnership with his wife. Both were engaged in teaching in the Theresa
graded schools before their marriage, he as principal and she as assistant, and
11-4-1 "
420
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
during that time they agreed to study law together in Valparaiso University,
receiving their degrees from that institution in the same year. Both are well
versed in the intricate details of their profession and keep pace with modern
progress and advancement. They have been connected with some important
litigation and have always conducted the affairs entrusted to them ably and with
a view to the best interests of their clients. They are well and prominently known
in Watertown and have a gratifying practice, being very successful in its conduct.
The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kading occurred in 1900. Mrs. Kading was in
her maidenhood Miss Elizabeth Holste, a daughter of Julius Sommers, of Water-
town. Her parents died when she was a child and she was afterward adopted
by Henry Holste, taking his name by order of the court. She was born July 17,
1877, and was graduated from the Watertown high school, later taking the law
course in Valparaiso University, graduating in 1900 and being admitted to the
bar in the same year. She has since been associated with her husband in the
general practice of law. They have one son, Charles Earl, who was born June
i?X>7
Mr. Kading is active and prominent in local fraternal circles, holding mem-
bership in Watertown Lodge, No. 49, F. & A. M., and Watertown Chapter, No.
11, R. A. M. He also belongs to Watertown Lodge, No. 666, B. P. O. E., and
to Watertown Lodge No. 1242, F. O. E. He is well known in the Modern Wood-
men of America, holding membership in Log Camp, No. 401, of Watertown. He
belongs also to the Maccabees and to the Equitable Fraternal Union and his wife
holds membership in Wood Camp, No. 3137, Royal Neighbors. Mr. Kading
gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is well known in local affairs in
the line of his profession. For seven years he was city attorney of Watertown
and is now serving his sixth year as district attorney of Dodge county. He was
chosen by his party as a candidate for the office of attorney general of the state,
at the primaries, on September 3, 1912, his opponent being John F. Doherty, of
La Crosse, Wisconsin, and came very nearly being elected, cutting down the
majority in the strongly republican state of Wisconsin from about eighty thou-
sand in 1908 to twenty-one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine in 1912. His
prominence in important affairs has come to him by reason of his past able
attainments and the thoroughness of his legal knowledge.
Otto A. Grams, a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 22,
Trenton township, is busily engaged in the operation of a tract of two hundred
acres which he rents from his father. His birth occurred in Green Lake county,
Wisconsin, on the 20th of November, 1875, his parents being Ernst and Augusta
(Deutchbein) Grams, both of whom arc natives of Germany. They emigrated
to the United States in the early '70s and settled in Green Lake county, Wiscon-
sin, while in 1886 they came to Dodge county, taking up their abode near Lake
Emily, where they made their home for a period of fifteen years. In 1900 they
purchased the farm on which they have since resided. Ernst Grams is now in
the seventieth year of his age, while his wife is in her sixty-seventh year. Unto
OTTO A. GRAMS.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
421
them were born seven children, one of whom died in infancy. The others are as
follows: Lena, who is the wife of Gustav Bcrnhagen and resides in Waupun;
William, who is employed as a farm hand ; Otto A., of this review ; Louisa, who
gave her hand in marriage to Herman Ringer and resides in Green Lake county ;
Herman, who is married and resides in this county, near Waupun; and Elmer
E., who is still under the parental roof.
Otto A. Grams spent the first twenty-eight years of his life with his parents
and was then married and established a home of his own. Starting out as an
agriculturist on his own account, he cultivated rented land for three years and
on the expiration of that period rented the homestead property from his father
and has operated the same continuously since. The pursuits of general farming
and stock-raising claim his time and energies, and one hundred and fifty acres of
his place is under cultivation. He has both graded Durham and Holstein cattle
and sells the milk from his twenty cows to the cheese factory. He also raises
Chester White hogs for the market and breeds horses, and he feeds his grain
and hay but sells his barley. All of the improvements on the property were made
by himself and his father. The barn, thirty-six by fifty feet, was erected in 1875,
and the residence was remodeled in 1907. The place presents a neat and attrac-
tive appearance, everything about it evidencing capable management and intelli-
gent supervision.
In the fall of 1903 Mr. Grams was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Galow,
a daughter of Gustav and Mary (Beltz) Galow, both of whom are natives of
Germany. They emigrated to the United States in the late '80s, settling near
Lomira, Dodge county, Wisconsin. They are today residents of Trenton town-
ship, Gustav Galow having attained the age of fifty-seven years, while his wife
is fifty-six years old. Mrs. Grams, the second in order of birth in a family of
ten children, was born on the 16th of October, 1882. By her marriage she has
become the mother of four children, one of whom died in infancy. The others
are as follows : Mabel, who was born on the 14th of July, 1905 ; Dorothy, whose
birth occurred on the 29th -of April, 1909; and Ernst G., whose natal day was
December 22, 191 1,
Mr. Grams is a democrat in politics and has served as a member of the school
board for two years. He and his family belong to the Lutheran church at
Waupun. He is well known and highly regarded throughout the community by
all who know him or have dealings with him, as he is a man of upright prin-
ciples and high standards, whose integrity is above question.
WILLIAM MILTON.
William Milton is living in Fox Lake and is giving his time to the manage-
ment of his extensive land holdings in the city and in Trcn;on and Fox Lake
townships. Until 1910 he was active and successful as a farmer, for he operated
and developed one of the finest properties in Dodge county for about seventeen
years and by his progressive methods kept constantly in touch with the trend of
modern agricultural development He was born in Adams county, September 21,
1859, a son of Peter and Ann (Greely) Milton, the former a native of Dover,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
England, and the latter of County Galway, Ireland. Both came to America in
their childhood and their marriage occurred in Chicago, Illinois. For some time
afterward they resided in that city and in the early '50s came west to Wisconsin,
settling in Adams county. There the father bought government land and
developed and improved his property for seven years, after which he sold it and
came to Dodge county, where he purchased thirty acres of land in Trenton town-
ship. From that time until his retirement in 1892 he gave his attention exclu-
sively to fanning and became prosperous and successful in his chosen field of
labor. When he abandoned active life he moved to Fox Lake and there died
January 22, 1910, in the seventy-eighth year of his age. His wife passed away
on the 26th of May of the same year and was seventy-six years of age when she
died. Both are buried in Waushara cemetery at Fox Lake. At the time of his
death Peter Milton owned two hundred and ten acres of land in Trenton town-
ship and a large amount of other valuable real estate in the section, and this. prop-
erty was divided among his ten children.
William Milton was the third child and the eldest son in this family. He was
educated in the district schools and his boyhood was spent aiding his father with
the work of the farm. When he was almost twenty-one years of age he began
his independent career, working for wages on a neighboring property. At this
he continued for six years and then bought, in partnership with his brother, one
hundred and ninety-five acres of land in Trenton township and engaged in farm-
ing. One year later he purchased his brother's interest and from that time oper-
ated the enterprise alone. He studied agriculture as a systematic science, fol-
lowed the most practical methods and gradually brought his farm to a high state
of cultivation. Practically all the improvements upon the property were placed
there by Mr. Milton. These include a fine barn, thirty-two feet long by forty
feet wide, an attractive, modern and well appointed home, a drilled well supply-
ing water for all purposes and other necessary and substantial improvements.
Mr. Milton has one hundred and sixty acres under the plow, the remainder of
his farm being swamp, marsh and wood land. This property comprises his* most
valuable holding but he has made in the course of years other judicious invest-
ments in land and owns forty acres in Fox Lake township besides his comfort-
able residence in the village.
Mr. Milton made his home upon his farm until the fall of 1905, when he
retired from active life. He made his home in the hotel in Fox Lake until
November 2, 1910, when he married Mrs. Emma Freeman, the widow of George
Freeman and a daughter of John Hegetschweiler, of Lowell township. Her
father died in 1891, at the age of sixty-three, and is buried in South Beaver Dam
cemetery. Her mother resides in Beaver Dam and is in the seventy-first year
of her age. The father was born in Switzerland and the mother in Germany.
Mrs. Milton was the fifth in a family of eleven children and was born March 4,
1867. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Milton moved into their attractive
and comfortable home in Fox Lake and have become prominent and well known
in social circles of the city,
Mr. Milton gives his allegiance to the democratic party and is interested in
public affairs, especially as they affect education. This interest has led him to
accept a position on the Trenton school board and he has done able and conscien-
tious work for the past three years. He is a member of the Fox Lake lodge
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
423
of the Modern Woodmen of America. His active career was of the useful kind
which influenced the growth of farming in methods and details. For seventeen
years he worked steadily and earnestly to make his farm profitable and productive,
and he accomplished not only his individual prosperity but his labors and suc-
cess are factors in the general development.
ROBERT J. BAIRD.
Robert J. Baird, one of Dodge county's progressive and prosperous agricul-
turists, devotes his attention to the pursuits of general farming and stock-raising,
also making a specialty of dairying. His property, known as The Elms, com-
prises two hundred acres of land on section 7, Trenton township, and twenty-two
acres in Fox Lake township. His birth occurred in Marquette, Green Lake
county, Wisconsin, on the 16th of December, 1862, his parents being Archibald
and Catherine (Casey) Baird, the former a native of Ireland, and the latter of
Wisconsin. When a boy Archibald Baird came alone to the United States, mak-
ing his way to Wisconsin and spending several years at Elkhorn, Walworth
county. Subsequently he removed to Green Lake county, this state, and there
engaged in farming. He was married in the year i860 and remained a resident
of Green Lake county until 1900, when he went to the Soldiers' Home in Mil-
waukee, there passing away on the 1st of September, 1907, when seventy-five
years of age. His widow, who is now sixty-seven years old, makes her home in
Beaver Dam. In 1863 Mr. Baird enlisted for service in the Union army as a
member of Company A, Fifty-second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and the
same year was taken sick at Benton Barracks, in St. Louis. After a serious ill-
ness of six months he returned home on a furlough and at the close of the war '
was honorably discharged. Five years ago he was buried in the Soldiers'
National Cemetery at Milwaukee, with military honors.
Robert J. Baird, who was the first born in a family of nine children, attended
the public schools in the acquirement of an education and remained under the
parental roof until his twentieth year. At that time he came to Trenton town-
ship, this county, and here cultivated rented land until 1904, when he purchased
the property which is now in his possession and on which he has since made his
home. In connection with the production of cereals he devotes considerable
attention to stock-raising and also makes a specialty of dairying, milking thirty
cows of graded Durham stock. He raises hogs for the market and has on hand
one hundred head of pure-bred Poland Chinas. All of his land is ready for the
plow and has natural drainage, and the property is all fenced and hog tight. Mr.
Baird feeds his hay and a part of his grain but sells his barley. The house and
barn stood on the farm when it came into his possession but he has built a silo,
garage, hog houses and other outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock
and his property is now lacking in none of the equipments and accessories of a
model farm of the twentieth century. Water for all purposes is supplied from
drilled wells. Mr. Baird values his place at thirty-five thousand dollars and
enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the leading and successful agriculturists
of the community. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company and
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
the Fanners Mutual Dairy Company, of Waupun, Wisconsin, and also in the
Fox Lake State Bank.
In 1886 Mr. Baird was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Milton, a daughter
of Peter and Ann (Greeley) Milton, who were natives of England and Ireland,
respectively. They emigrated to America in early life and were married in Chi-
cago, spending the first two years of their domestic life in that city. They then
removed to Adams county, Wisconsin, where Peter Milton followed farming for
six years. In 1864 he came to Dodge county, settled in Trenton township, pur-
chased land and resided there until 1892, his farm at that time embracing one
hundred and seventy-five acres. Leasing that place, he purchased property in
Fox Lake, Wisconsin, where he spent the remainder of his life in honorable
retirement, passing away on the 20th of January, 1910, at the age of seventy-
seven years. His wife was called to her final rest on the 25th of May, 1910,
when seventy-four years of age. The remains of both were interred in the ceme-
tery at Fox Lake. Mrs. Baird, whose birth occurred in February, 1859, was one
of a pair of twins and the eldest of eleven children. She is now the mother of
four children, as follows: Albert H., at home, who was graduated from the State
Agricultural College, at Madison, in 1912; Mathew J., Lucy May and Clarence
P., all of whom are still under the parental roof.
Mr. Baird gives his political allegiance to the republican party, has been school
director for many years and for a period of twenty-six years has acted in the
capacity of road superintendent. In 1906 he was appointed a delegate to the
farmers' national congress. His religious faith is indicated by his membership
in St. Mary's Catholic church of Fox Lake, to which his wife and children also
belong. He commands the warm friendship and esteem of all who know him
by reason of his high ideals of citizenship and honorable dealings in all business
relations. His prosperity is well merited, for it has come as the direct reward
of his earnest and intelligently directed effort.
Owen R. Jones owns and operates an excellent farm of one hundred and
fifty-seven acres on sections 33 and 34, Calamus township, upon which he carries
on general farming and stock-raising, and his business qualifications and his
genuine personal worth entitle him to be numbered among the representative
citizens of Dodge county. He was born on December 3, 1857, ^ is a son of
O. B. and Ann (Edwards) Jones, natives of Wales. His father's birth occurred
in 1823 and in 1844 he crossed the Atlantic to America, settling in Columbus
county, Wisconsin. In the following year he purchased a farm on Fountain
Prairie, in that section which he operated until a few months before his death,
when he moved to Randolph and made his home with his daughter. The mother
of our subject was born in Wales in 1825 and was married in America in 1848.
She and her husband had eight children, two of whom died in infancy, the
others being: David O., who married Rachel Prichard, and who lives in Spencer,
Iowa; John O., who married May Roberts, a daughter of Griffith Roberts of
Bristol Grove, Minnesota; Edward E., who married Mary Jones of Fillmore
OWEN R. JONES.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
425
county, Minnesota, and who lives in Lime Springs, Iowa; Ann, who became
the wife of Robert Lewis of Fillmore county, Minnesota; Mary, who married
John Williams of Randolph, Wisconsin ; and Owen R., the subject of this sketch.
Owen R. Jones was reared upon his father's farm in Fountain Prairie and
in his early youth went west and carried on general agriculture in South Dakota,
North Dakota, Montana, and northern Iowa, locating upon his present farm in
Calamus township in 1888. Since that time he has made his home in this section
and is today ranked among the leading and representative citizens of the county.
His farm comprises one hundred and fifty-seven acres, one hundred and seven
of which are under cultivation. He carries on general agriculture and stock-
raising, breeding all grades of cattle. He has lived for almost a quarter of a
century upon the property which he is now operating and has made it a well
improved farm, equipped with large barns and outbuildings and with modern
labor-saving machinery.
In October, 1886, Mr. Jones was united in marriage in Fountain Prairie to
Miss Mary Roberts, a daughter of David R. Roberts, of that section. Mrs.
Jones was reared by her uncle, Robert R. Roberts, having made her home with
him since the death of her mother. She and her husband became the parents
of nine children, two of whom have passed away. The others are: Margaret,
who was born in 1887, and who is the wife of William C. Roberts, a son of
Hugh Roberts of Calamus township; Agnes, who was born in January, 1889,
and who lives at home; Milton, whose natal day was September 15, 1890,
and who now lives in Spencer, Iowa; Edward, who was born in August, 1892,
and who is still with his parents; Roy, who was born in November, 1894, and
who also lives with his parents; Harriett, whose birth occurred in August, 1897;
and Maurice, who was born on the 27th of July, 1905, and who is still upon
the home farm.
In his political beliefs Mr. Jones is a consistent republican and takes an
intelligent interest in public affairs although he has never sought public office.
He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and is a devout member of
the Methodist Episcopal church. Viewed from every standpoint his life may
be termed successful because he has made his holdings productive and valuable,
and has achieved the good-will, trust and respect of all with whom he has been
associated.
EARL M. FEELYATER, D. V. S.
Dr. Earl M. Feelyater, of Randolph, is successfully engaged in the practice
of veterinary surgery and also acts as assistant state veterinarian. His birth
occurred in Columbus township, Columbia county, Wisconsin, in 1887, his parents
being Frank and Ada (Leffingwell) Feelyater. The father was born at that
place in 1847. The paternal grandfather of our subject was reared in Paris
and came to this country from France as a young man, landing in New York
with only one shilling in his pocket Making his way to Ohio, he there secured
employment and by diht of hard work and careful economy accumulated some
capital. On coming west he took up his abode in Columbus township, Columbia
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
county, this state. Unto him and his wife were born nine children. Dominick,
the eldest, died of diphtheria when a child.. Katherine, a native of Columbia
county, became the wife of John Beckwith and they established their home in
Columbus, Wisconsin, where they passed away and are buried. Nicholas, who
was born in 1841, wedded Miss Charlotte Raines and lived in Columbus town-
ship, Columbia county, until his demise in 191 1. Both he and his wife were
buried at Columbus, the latter passing away about 1905. Rosa, whose natal year
was 1843, still makes her home at Columbus, Wisconsin. Adam, whose birth
occurred in 1845, wedded Miss Jennie Jones and yet resides in Columbus. His
wife died about 1892 and was buried at that place. Samuel married Miss Char-
lotte Luey and established his home in Columbus, Wisconsin, where both he and
his wife passed away and are buried. Frank Feelyater, the father of our
subject, was the next in order of birth. Clarissa, born in 1851, died and was
buried at Columbus. Louis, whose natal year was 1853, passed away in childhood.
Following his marriage Frank Feelyater took up his abode on the farm where
he now resides. His children were four in number, namely: Earl M., of this
review; one who died in infancy; Winifred, born in 1891, who gave her hand
in marriage to Max Wendt and resides in Columbus, Wisconsin ; and Bernard
who was born in 1897 and is still under the parental roof.
Earl M. Feelyater obtained his early education in a district school and later
entered the high school at Columbus, being graduated therefrom when a youth
of seventeen. After putting aside his text-books he worked for several veterin-
arians in Columbus, Wisconsin, and Austin, Minnesota, and subsequently entered
the Chicago Veterinary College, from which he was graduated in 191 1. He located
for practice at Randolph, Wisconsin, and was here appointed assistant state
veterinarian under A. H. Hartwig, state veterinarian of Wisconsin. In the line
of his profession Dr. Feelyater has already won a creditable measure of suc-
cess, his practice extending over a large territory. He is a member of the Alpha
Psi fraternity of Chicago and now holds the office of president of its alumni
association. A young man of ability and ambition, he will undoubtedly make
steady advancement in the field of his chosen life work.
Albert Genrich, who owns and operates a farm of eighty acres located on
section 36, Westford township, was born in Germany on the 1st of February,
1846. He is a son of Gotlieb and Henrietta (Felgenhaurer) Genrich, both of
whom passed their entire lives in the old country, the father's death there occur-
ring when our subject was a child of about two years. The family of Mr. and Mrs.
Genrich numbered eight children: Wilhc'lmina, who became the wife of Frederick
Scharbias, and passed away in Merrill, Wisconsin, where she is buried ; Albertina,
the deceased wife of John Bachaus, her death occurring at Wausau, this state,
where she is buried ; Johanna, the wife of Fred Tetz, who has always resided in
Germany ; Fred, a resident of Wausau, this state, who married Wilhelmina Guese;
Ferdinand, who married Gusta Fox and passed away in Germany about 1896;
ALBERT GENRICH.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
427
Frank, who emigrated to this country about 1867, locating in Rolling Prairie,
this state, where he married Albertina Leitzke, now residing in Beaver Dam;
and Julius, deceased, who passed his entire life in Germany.
Albert Genrich, the other member of the family, passed the first twenty-four
years of his life in his native land. Having become dissatisfied with conditions
as he found them there, he resolved to join his brother in America and in 1870,
took passage for the United States. He arrived June 18th, of that year, and
came direct to Wisconsin, locating at Burnett. Two years later he went to
Nebraska, where he remained until 1874, when he returned to Wisconsin, set-
tling on his present farm in Westford township. Here he has ever since resided,
devoting his entire time and attention to the development of his property. His
land is all under cultivation and in connection with his general farming he engages
in dairying and raises graded stock.
Mr. Genrich was married in 1871 to Miss Henrietta Leitzke, who was born
in Germany, October 7, 1847. 1° *869» sne left her native land and emigrated
to the United States, making the long journey alone. She came direct to Wis-
consin, locating in Rolling Prairie. To Mr. and Mrs. Genrich there have been
born the following children: Annie, who was born in 1872, became the wife of
August Ehlert, and passed away in Beaver Dam in 1900, being buried in Oak-
wood cemetery; Julius, whose birth occurred in 1873; Amelia, who was born in
1875 ; Emma, whose natal year was 1877, and who is the wife of Fred Michaels,
of Aurora, Illinois; Clara, who was born in 1880, and is the wife of Carl Mich-
aels, of Beaver Dam; and Arthur, who was born November 8, 1882, and married
Emma Podolski, of Horicon, Wisconsin.
In matters of faith the family are Lutherans, the parents holding membership
in the First German church of that denomination in Beaver Dam. Mr. Genrich
has worked zealously early and late and fully merits such success as has come to
him. In matters of business he is strictly honest and upright and has won the
reputation among his neighbors and fellow townsmen of being trustworthy and
reliable.
JOSEPH KIRK EVISON.
During the last six years of his life Joseph Kirk Evison was a resident of
Beaver Dam and for forty years previously had lived in Wisconsin. He displayed
many sterling traits of character — devotion to his family, loyalty to his friends,
fidelity to his country and unfaltering allegiance to his church — and thus it was
that he won and enjoyed the respect and good- will of all who knew him. He
was born at Navenby, Lincolnshire, England, October 21, 1831, and was about
seventeen years of age when he came alone to the new world. Later his parents,
his brothers, William, Christopher and George, and his sisters, Elizabeth Ann
and Susannah, also came to the United States. He first located in Brookfield.
Wisconsin, and though his financial resources were limited, his energy and deter-
mination were unfaltering and he put forth every possible effort to make a start
in life. In 1863 he removed to Burnett, where he lived until 1896, and thence
he removed to Beaver Dam, where he made his home for about a year, when
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
he returned to the farm and spent four years. He then returned again to
Beaver Dam, where he lived until his demise. In England he was a shepherd
but in the new world followed agricultural pursuits and became a farmer of
the more modern and progressive type.
While living in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Mr. Evison was united in marriage
to Miss Anna Leith and unto them were born nine children, five of whom are
living, namely: Edgar Kirk, Joseph Arthur, William Leith, Jenny Isabel and
Lizzy Ann. The wife and mother passed away on the 15th of December, 1896,
at her home in Beaver Dam, and about five years later, or on the 12th of June,
1901, Mr. Evison wedded Mrs. Mary E. Hovey. They lived together in happy
wedlock until separated by death on the 25th of April, 1910, when Mr. Evison
was called to the home beyond. In his native town of Navenby he was reared
in the Episcopal faith but soon after coming to this country he united with the
Methodist Episcopal church, of which he remained a consistent and devoted
member until his death.
Mrs. Evison, who still survives him, bore the maiden name of Mary Saunders
and was born in Monterey, Schuyler county, New York, June 29, 1848, her
parents being Avery P. and Caroline (Goodrich) Saunders, who had but the
one child. In her very early girlhood the family removed to the south and in
1865 she left Grenada, Mississippi, to become a resident of the Empire state.
In 1867 she married George L. Hovey at Rock Stream, New York, and they
traveled life's journey together for about nineteen years, when in 1886 Mr.
Hovey passed away. Her father, born in New York, went south in 1856 and
served as a Confederate soldier during the Civil war. Mrs. Evison has written
most interesting reminiscences concerning the period of the Civil war which
for lack of space we cannot print in full. She said in part : "My memory drifts
back to the dear old sunny south, before the war, in slavery days, when I was
a happy schoolgirl in a southern Baptist college. There were rumors of war
and when the call went forth 'To arms,' every man or boy who loved his country
responded to the call. Soldiers began to go into camp from our own town, across
the road in a grove from my home. Professor Granberry, every time a train
would come into the station loaded with soldiers, would march the girls to the
train to see them. . . . Our home companies left us and others came and
camped around us. Our colleges and churches were taken for hospitals and
there was no more going to school until the war was over. School closed at
once the day after the national colors were lowered over Fort Sumter and we
began to realize that war had come in earnest. At last the bluecoats faced the
gray legions, and as sadly as they misjudged each other at that time, there was
not one who fell asleep that night but realized that before another sun would
set the red soil would be dyed a still redder hue. Our president, Jefferson
Davis, reviewed his troops, some thirty thousand men, on a field just back of
our house. The soldiers were from three o'clock in the morning until noon
getting on the ground to be reviewed by the president, who rode a very excitable
but beautiful black horse. Everybody went to sec the parade. It was the
grandest sight of my life. ... At last these troops were called to 'Forward
march' toward Corinth and Shiloh and the town seemed forsaken. There was
not a man or boy to be seen that could carry a gun, only those too old or too
young and a few who were detailed from the ranks for other duties. Among
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
429
these was my father, who, being an undertaker, was detailed to make coffins.
Finally there came a draft and he, too, had to respond to the southern call."
Mrs. Evison then writes a clear account of the hard times that ensued, when
seventy-five dollars in Confederate money was paid for a pound of coffee, when
it was a rare treat to have biscuit which had previously been served in southern
homes three times a day and when they lived principally on corn meal, ground
in a portable mill by hand. For lights they sometimes used a button tied up
in a cloth put in a saucer of grease. Again they would use a corncob wound
around with five yards of candle wick dipped in rosin, beeswax and melted
tallow. Dry goods, too, were exceedingly high and could only be secured when
some of the ladies, with a negro driver and an ox team, would go to Memphis,
ninety-eight miles away, and smuggle through their purchases. But at length
the guards became suspicious and searched everyone that came through the
lines. "We had to spin our own thread, card our cotton rolls by hand, spin
them into thread, boil this and twist it while wet. I at one time paid eighty
dollars for eight yards of cloth for a 'best dress' and for a hat wore a sun-
bonnet. I finally learned to braid straw and palmetto very much like some of
the fancy braids used today.
"One morning, bright and beautiful, up from behind the forts the sun burst
forth in all the splendor of early summer. But listen! Sounds came like
thunder, although the sky was cloudless. Soon it came again, deepening into a
sullen roar, and we knew what it meant. It was an exciting time when our
town was taken. Just before the northerners came in, you would see women
here and there, carrying trunks to hide them from the Yankees. My stepmother
and I did not agree very well on the political question of the day. I had
northern blood in my veins and it rushed to the surface, manifesting itself in
favor of the Yankees. She, being a South Carolinian and one of the strongest
secessionists, sided with the south. I came running in one day clapping my
hands and exclaiming: 'Atlanta has fallen, and all the forts around Mobile.'
Mother became very angry with me and called me a black-hearted republican.
On and on the northerners came through fields and woods across the river,
where other scenes were destined to occur on this fatal day. 'Gose up, close
up!' shouted the commander. As they push onward a gray haze begins to
spread over the heavens, and the air is heavy with burnt powder, the fire rings
from the musketry and artillery. I only wish I might picture these scenes as
I saw them. Back and forth the gray and blue lines stagger and reel in appalling
scene of uproar, confusion and death. A mighty hurrah rents the air, the blue
masses come forward and the enemy flies. Broken, disordered, the gray lines
melt away into a disorganized mass that rolls back in disorder and confusion,
realizing that our town was hopelessly lost. The sun hung like a ball of fire in
the heavens. Our men, the southerners, retreated past our house about five
o'clock. I stood in the door looking down toward the river. I saw a squad of
cavalry coming, thinking at the first glimpse it was the southerners still retreat-
ing. As they neared the house I could see their blue coats. A friend standing
in the door with me when we first saw them slapped her hands, trying to hurry
them on that they might not be taken prisoners. Everything that had anything
to do with the government was burned that night. The town seemed to be one
mass of flames." Mrs. Evison then gave a most interesting description of the
430
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Memorial Day in the south, saying: "It is worthy of remembrance that not-
withstanding the bitterness that then existed, the grave of every northern
soldier was decorated and from that time to the present not one has been
neglected anywhere through the south. In Richmond, in historic old Holly-
wood cemetery, there is a soldiers' monument, ninety feet high, which marks
the graves of eighteen thousand Confederate soldiers. There lie our beloved
generals, Stuart and Pickett, who fell on the battlefield only seven miles away,
trying to save Richmond for a time from the enemy. There also, upon a lofty
eminence overlooking the falls of James river, rests the president of the 'Con-
federate States' and by his side Miss Winnie Davis, the 'Daughter of the Con-
federacy,' whom not only the south but the whole country loved and mourned,
and on this Memorial Day from all over the country are sent flowers as a
tribute to her worth and in attestation of a reunited country."
GEORGE BREWSTER SWAN.
George Brewster Swan, a graduate in law from the University of Wiscon-
sin, has since 1903 been engaged in practice in Beaver Dam, his native city, and
the eight years which have elapsed since that time have chronicled steady prog-
ress in his profession, with increasing ability to handle intricate and important
litigated interests. He was born June 4, 1878, and is a son of Dr. George E.
and Mary W. Swan, the former of whom was a descendant of Thomas Benedict,
who came to the Plymouth Bay colony in 1638.
George B. Swan acquired his early education in the Beaver Dam public
schools and later attended Shattuck -Military School in Faribault, Minnesota,
and was from 1898 to 1900 a student in Colgate University at Hamilton, New
York. His broad literary training enabled him to make rapid progress in his
preparation for the bar, for his receptive mind and retentive memory qualified
him to grasp readily the salient points of the profession. In 1903 he received
the degree of LL. B. from the law department of the University of Wiscon-
sin and opened an office in Beaver Dam, where he has since attained a position
of prominence and importance in legal circles. He prepares his cases thor-
oughly and is seldom, if ever, at fault in his application of a legal principle.
In addition his mind is naturally analytical and in his reasoning he clearly points
out the relation of cause and effect, his deductions being entirely logical. In
consequence, his practice has grown and expanded, so that today he is con-
nected with much of the important litigation in the courts of his district.
On the 4th of August, 1904, Mr. Swan married, at Beaver Dam, Miss Mary
A. Campbell, a daughter of James and Margaret Campbell, the former a native
of Canada, of Scotch parentage, and the latter born in Scotland. Mr. and Mrs.
Swan have two children: George Campbell, aged seven; and Mary Margaret,
aged six.
Mr. Swan has always taken an interest in educational affairs and in move-
ments of general interest, his identification as trustee with the Wayland Academy,
as director with the Williams Free Library and as a member of the board of
directors with the Beaver Dam Hospital Association indicating something of
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HI-STORY OF DODGE COUNTY
431
the scope of his activities. In college he was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon
and was received in the Phi Delta Phi in law school. He is also prominent in
the Masonic order, holding membership in Dodge County Lodge, No. 72,
F. & A. M. He gives his allegiance to the republican party but has never been
an office seeker, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his professional
duties. His devotion to his clients' interests is proverbial and he has established
himself in a successful and growing practice in his native city.
LOUIS R. KOHLMANN.
One of the substantial, representative and enterprising fanners of Dodge
county, who by carrying on agriculture along systematic and progressive lines
are making their individual prosperity count as a public resource, is Louis R.
Kohlmann, operating one of the finest tracts of land in the district. His fatm
comprises one hundred and twenty-five acres on section 36, Burnett township,
and to its cultivation he is bringing industry, intelligence and activity and is
making it a model property. Mr. Kohlmann was born on April 25, 1876, in
Horicon and is a son of William and Augusta (Wegner) Kohlmann, both
natives of Germany. They came to America at an early date and settled on a
farm near Leroy. Mr. Kohlmann is the second of the three children born
to their union.
Our subject received his early education in the German parochial school
of Horicon and completed it in the public high school of that city. He has
lived with his parents all his life but his active career began when he was
fourteen years of age. At that time he obtained a position in a dry-goods store
at Horicon, working in the employ of F. A. Melcher, with whom he remained
for three years. At the end of that time he began fanning and has since
made this the principal industry of his life. His property is one of the finest
tracts of land in Dodge county and Mr. Kohlmann has it entirely enclosed by
a barbed wire fence. He has made extensive improvements in the buildings,
erecting barns, a tool shed and granaries. He has remodeled the residence,
making it comfortable and pleasant. He engages in general farming but special-
izes in the breeding and raising of mixed Durham and Holstein cattle. He is
well known as a dairyman and the products of this branch of his enterprise he
sells to the Union Dairy Cheese Factory. His herd for dairy purposes com-
prises fourteen head of high-grade cattle. He also breeds Poland China hogs
for the Wisconsin markets and sells barley, oats, hay and other grains. He is
an enterprising and skilful agriculturist and has promoted his prosperity by
firm adherence to standards of progress.
On February 9, 1899, Mr. Kohlmann was united in marriage to Miss Ella
L. Isaack, a daughter of Albert and Augusta (Christian) Isaack, both natives
of Burnett township. To Mr. and Mrs. Kohlmann have been born five chil-
dren, Harold, Myrtle, Millard, Viola and Verna.
Mr. Kohlmann is active in democratic politics and from 1909 to 1910 served
as deputy sheriff under August Gramlow. He did able and successful work
for two years and in the fall of 1910 announced his candidacy for the office
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of sheriff. He was defeated by William Volkman, of Beaver Dam, but is now
in the field for the office on the democratic ticket. His business success is only
equalled by his personal kindliness. He has taken care of his sister, Martha
Laura Alice Kohlmann, since she was nine years of age. Her birth occurred
December 30, 1890, and our subject has had entire charge of her education.
He sent her to the Horicon Lutheran German Parochial school and she com-
pleted her studies in joint school district, No. 3, of Burnett and Oak Grove
townships. Mr. Kohlmann is still a young man but during the period of his
active life has taken a helpful part in the work of improvement and progress
which has been carried forward along agricultural lines. He has directed his
own career so successfully that he is today classed among the prominent farmers
of Dodge county and has made his progressive and systematic labors fruitful
of results.
Carl F. Ruedebusch does general farming and stock-raising upon one hun-
dred forty-eight and one-half acres of land on section 3, Beaver Dam town-
ship, and is numbered among the prosperous, progressive and substantial agri-
culturists of this district. He is a native son of Dodge county, having been born
in Mayville, March 18, 1869. He is a son of Henry F. and Louise Ruede-
busch, natives of Germany, who were reared and educated in that country,
where their marriage occurred. His father came to America about the year
1857 and settled in Dodge county, where he purchsaed land and carried on
general agriculture for a few years, returning to Germany after a short time
in order to bring his wife to this country. He purchased one hundred and sixty
acres in Williamstown where he lived until 1890, when he disposed of his
property and moved to Beaver Dam. Here he resided for one year, buying
at the end of that time sixty acres near Mayville, upon which he lived until his
death which occurred in 1906, when he was seventy-two years of age. His wife
survives him and makes her home with her daughter in Mayville.
Carl F. Ruedebusch was the fifth in a family of ten children. He was reared
at home and educated in the district schools of Dodge county, becoming acquainted
at an early date with the details and methods of agriculture by personal experi-
ence upon his father's farm. He remained at home until he was twenty-one
and then went to Nebraska, where he resided for two months returning to
Beaver Dam where he learned the creamery business. For twenty years he
was successful in this line of occupation following it until 1910, when he sold
his enterprise and purchased the farm upon which he is now residing. He is
the owner of one hundred forty-eight and one-half acres, highly improved and
cultivated. He does general farming and specializes in stock-raising, intend-
ing to devote much of his time in the future to the breeding of pure-blooded
Holstein cattle. He operates a sanitary dairy and sells his milk to a neighbor-
ing cheese factory. He has his acres planted in various grains and in hay and
he feeds his own cattle, disposing of all his farm products in this way with
the exception of his barley which he sells in the Wisconsin markets.
CARL F. RUEDEBUSCH.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY!
433
In 1898 Mr. Ruedebusch was united in marriage to Miss Lina Pernot, a
daughter of Albert Pernot of Mayville. Mrs. Ruedebusch was born on July
28, 1 87 1, and remained at home until her marriage. She and her husband
became the parents of three children: Lester, Who died at the age of five years
and five months; and Eugene and Louise, both of whom live at home. The
family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church of Beaver Dam.
In his political beliefs Mr. Ruedebusch is a firm republican, taking an intelli-
gent interest in local and national affairs but never seeking public office for him-
self. He is well known as a member of the Royal Arcanum and has many
friends in the section in which he resides. Although he has been farming but
a short time his influence is important in agricultural circles for his methods are
progressive and systematic and his standards high. He is one of the enterpris-
ing and prosperous citizens of his district and in him modern agriculture finds
a worthy representative.
GUSTAVUS FLOHR.
Gustavus Flohr was born in Dodge county in 1847, the beginning of the
pioneer period in the section, and his life has been identified with almost its entire
development and growth, for few settlements had been made within the borders
in his childhood and all of the evidences of pioneer life were to be seen and hard
conditions of pioneer development to be met. At the present time he owns and
cultivates the homestead, which he aided his father to wrest from the wilderness,
and his farm is one of the finest in the county. The name of Flohr has for
many years been prominent in Wisconsin history. The father of our subject,
Morris Flohr, was born in Saxony, Germany, and was reared and educated in
that country. He came to America in 1846 and settled in Dodge county, on
land in what is now Emmet township. He was a man of excellent education
and had followed the trade of landscape gardening in his native country. When
he settled in Wisconsin he purchased land and began its improvement and
development. All around him stretched unbroken timber tracts and the growth
was heavy upon his farm. With characteristic energy, however, he set himself
to clear the land and fence his fields. There was a small shanty upon his
property when he located there and his first winter in the new world was spent
in this crude dwelling. However, in the following year he built a good log
house, in which he lived with his family for some time. As his financial resources
increased he added to his holdings, built substantial barns and outbuildings
and finally erected an excellent modern dwelling. This was a frame house, but
was brick filled, and this made it warm and comfortable throughout the severe
Wisconsin winters. Morris Flohr reared his sons upon his farm in Emmet
township but later retired to Watertown, where he resided until his death in
1883.
Gustavus Flohr is one of two children born to his parents. He grew to
manhood upon his father's farm and received his education in the district schools.
This was supplemented by a short course in the Watertown public schools.
When Morris Flohr retired his son assumed charge of the management of the
434
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
estate and has since given a great deal of his time to its further improvement
and development. He built a large basement barn, a silo and other outbuildings
and installed machinery to facilitate the work of the fields. A large portion of
his land is planted in orchard and a number of acres are under cultivation in
suitable grains. In connection with general farming Mr. Flohr conducts a
model dairy and is also extensively interested in stock-raising. He keeps a fine>
herd of graded Holstein cattle, with a pure-blood registered bull at the head.
He also has fine hogs and thoroughbred horses. Every department of his farm
is excellently managed and shows the care and supervision of an expert
agriculturist.
Mr. Flohr was married, in Dodge county, June i, 1872, to Miss Elizabeth
Mengel, who was born and reared in this section. She is a daughter of John
Mengel, who came from Germany to America when he was eighteen years of
age and settled in Massachusetts, where he remained for a short time, employed
in a factory. He there married Miss. Elizabeth Frank, also a native of Germany,
and with her moved to Wisconsin in 1843, among the pioneer settlers in the
state. He entered a claim in Clyman township and after proving his title cleared
it of tiniber and improved it in every way. Upon this farm he resided until his
death. Mr. and Mrs. Flohr became the parents of six children, one of whom,
William, died at the age of seven months. The others are : Franklin and Louis,
who live at home and assist their father in the work of the farm ; Charles, who
is operating a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Clyman township ; and
Hermina and Emily, both of whom live at home.
Since casting his first vote Mr. Flohr has steadily adhered to the principles
and policies of the democratic party and has served in various local offices. He
was elected a member of the board of supervisors and did able work for one term.
He has also served as a member of the school board and was district clerk
for a number of years. He held the office of district treasurer and has been a
a delegate to many county conventions. For sixty-five years he has lived in
Dodge county and he is one of the few who have for so long a time witnessed
its growth and development. Throughout the entire period he has made his
home upon his present farm but has not confined his attentions and efforts to
its cultivation alone, but from time to time has given hearty cooperation to many
movements for the public good and has been active in their promotion. Dodge
county owes' its development to such men, who faced the hardships of life in
pioneer times and have reclaimed this region for the purposes of civilization.
Emil J. Schulze has been connected with the hardware business in Beaver
Dam, Wisconsin, for a number of years and as a member of the firm of Miller
& Schulze occupies a prominent place in business circles of the city. He was
born on December 16, 1870, and is a native son of Beaver Dam. His parents
were Frederick A. and Augusta (Dornfeld) Schulze, both natives of Germany,
who came to Wisconsin in 1843, settling in Lebanon, Dodge county. Mr.
Schulze's grandfather, Frederick Schulze, also left his native country for America
EMIL J. SCHULZE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
435
and died in this country. He was the father of four children, Frederick A.,
William, August and Sophia. Emil J. Schulze is one of a family of nine
children : Augusta, living in Kenosha, Wisconsin ; Frederick, who passed away
in 1909, at the age of forty-six years; Louis, born in Beaver Dam November 19,
1864; Frank and Emil, both of whom are residents of Beaver Dam; William,
who lives in Spokane, Washington; Emmett, also of Beaver Dam; Olga, now
Mrs. Zimpel, of Milwaukee; and Minnie, who makes her home in the same city.
Emil J. Schulze was educated in the public schools of his native city and at
the age of twenty laid aside his books to begin his active career. He worked
upon a farm near Beaver Dam until 1908 and was prosperous and successful
as an agriculturist. He later turned his attention to the building business,
specializing in structures made of cement blocks and gained a gratifying degree
of success in this line. He later bought with -Mr. Miller the hardware business
belonging to Beichel Brothers and they conduct business under the firm name of
Miller & Schulze. The firm is conducting one of the largest and most flourish-
ing establishments in the hardware line in Beaver Dam and is bringing to its
conduct modern and progressive principles.
Mr. Schulze was united in marriage to Miss Anna Vetter, a daughter of
Elmer and Sophia Vetter, of Watertown, South Dakota. In the family of Mr.
and Mrs. Vetter were nine children: Edward, Robert, Louis, Anna, Hannah,
Richard and Laura, all of whom reside in Watertown, South Dakota, except
Anna, who is the wife of our subject; Ella, now Mrs. Louis, of Alberta, Canada;
and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Schulze are the parents of three children: Alvin,
whose birth occurred in September, 1899; Ella, born in 1900; and Frederick,
born in 1903.
Mr. Schulze served with great ability and efficiency for three years as town
clerk. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which
organization he is past grand. He also belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles
and is active in the Beavers. He is widely known as a representative and enter-
prising business man who has always maintained a commercial policy which is
above reproach and which has brought htm gratifying prosperity.
DAVID W. WILLIAMS.
David W. Williams, who is now living retired in Columbus, was long and
actively identified with general agricultural pursuits as a farmer and stock-
raiser of Calamus township, owning a well improved place of one hundred and
twenty acres which was his father's homestead and which he has recently sold.
He has spent practically all of his life in Wisconsin, having come to Dodge
county with his parents when he was a little over a year old. He was born in
Wales, November 2, 1846, and is a son of William D. and Mary (Jones)
Williams, both natives of that country, where the father was born on March
20, 1805, and the mother in the same year. Their marriage occurred in Wales,
in 1837, and ten years later they came to America. They became the parents
of six children: John W., born May 21, 1838, who married Miss Leah Williams
and is now residing in Minneapolis; Margaret, who was born July 22, 1839,
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436
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
and became the wife of Jonah Jones, of Columbus, Wisconsin; Catherine, who
was born on the ist of February, 1841, and who married Samuel W. Jones,
also of Columbus; Mary, whose birth occurred on the 25th of November, 1844,
and who became the wife of Thomas O. Jones, of Mankato, Minnesota ; Moses,
who passed away at the age of three years and is buried in Bethel at Elba ; and
David W., of this review.
The last named was one year and a half old when his parents settled in Elba
township near Bethel church. They, however, remained in that section only
a short time before they moved to their farm on section 32, Calamus township,
where Mr. Williams spent his childhood. He was educated in the district schools
and when not engaged with his books was active in assisting his father in the
work of the farm, gaining thus at an early date a knowledge of the most prac-
tical and modern agricultural methods. Eventually he became the owner of
one hundred and twenty acres of land, constituting his father's original pur-
chase, and upon this carried on general agriculture and stock-raising with excel-
lent success. In October, 1912, he disposed of his farm and took up his abode at
Columbus, where he is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest.
On the 22d of December, 1886, Mr. Williams was united in marriage to Miss
Margaret Williams, a daughter of Henry and Margaret Williams, of Oshkosh.
He belongs to the Calvanistic Methodist church and is well known as a man of
upright and exemplary life. He is numbered among the early settlers in this
section of the state and has been an interested witness of its development. He
has contributed his share thereto by conducting an enterprise in an intelligent
and systematic way, his prosperity being an asset in the resources of the state.
WILLIAM SCHAFER.
William Schafer is a native son of Wisconsin and has been identified with
progressive farming in Calamus township for many years. He owns one of
the finest tracts of land in Dodge county, his farm comprising two hundred
acres, highly improved and developed, on sections 23 and 26. He has been
active in its operation and by modern methods has made it a model agricultural
enterprise, up-to-date and fully equipped. He has now, however, given up his
active labors and has rented his farm to his nephews although he still makes his
home upon his land- His birth occurred in Dodge county, March 30, 1854, and
he is a son of John W. and Sophia (Gantz) Schafer, natives of Germany. The
father was born in that country in 1821 while the mother's birth occurred in
1823. They were married in the fatherland and came to America in 1846,
settling immediately in Lowell, where they remained until 1874. In that year
they moved to Calamus township, where the father purchased land on section
24, and carried on successful general farming upon that property until 1895,
when he disposed of his original holdings and purchased a farm on section 26,
and there he passed away in March, 1909, being survived by his wife until June,
191 1. Mr. and Mrs. John Schafer became the parents of seven children: Kate,
who married Christian Reinhard, of Reesville; William, the subject of this
sketch; Julia, who became the wife of William Herkcrt of Heaver Dam; Phillip,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
437
who died at the age of twenty-six, and is buried in Lowell; Etta, who became
the wife of Gustave Kranz of Progress; Fred, who married Martha Geutzen,
and who lives in Calamus township; and Annie, who married Charles Zepp of
Lowell.
William Schafer was educated in the public schools of Calamus township.
He assisted his parents in the operation of the farm until they died and afterward
took complete charge. He owns two hundred acres on sections 23 and 26, one
hundred and forty acres of which are under cultivation. He has built all the
barns and outbuildings and made extensive improvements, carrying on his labors
along modern and systematic lines. He now leaves the active work of the fields
to his two nephews to whom he rents his property.
Mr. Schafer is well known in Calamus township where he has resided for
thirty-eight years and has a wide acquaintance here. He has won universal trust
and good-will by reason of a Itfe which in all its phases is straightforward and
honorable and actuated by high standards of business activity.
ROBERT F. ROBERTS.
Robert F. Roberts, secretary and manager of the Randolph Wagon Works
and one of the most important men in business circles of the village, was born
in the section in which he is now active, July 12, 1858. He is a descendant of
an old Welsh family and his grandfather, Robert Roberts, was one of the
representative citizens of his section in Wales. He was born in 1750 and his
active life was in quite a measure devoted to the suppression of the liquor traffic
in his native country. He was twice married and reared eight children. To his
first marriage were born five, namely, Robert, Thomas, Jane, Ann and Hugh.
Of the second marriage to Cathrine Foulks, were born to him : David ; Foulk, the
father -of our subject; and Thomas, named after his deceased half-brother.
There were forty-nine years between him and his half-brother Robert, and the
father was seventy-six years of age, when this son was born to him.
The father of our subject, Foulk R. Roberts, was born in Carnarvonshire,
Wales, February 14, 1820, and remained in that country until August 20, 1844,
and two days prior, he was married to Cathrine Owens of the same place, a
daughter of Griffith and Elizabeth Owens. She was also one of eight children,
namely, Jane, Sarah, Mary, Cathrine (the mother of our subject), Samuel,
Esther, Griffith and Ellen.
Mr. and Mrs. Foulk Roberts, the parents of our subject, together with the
father's mother and two brothers, David and Thomas, left their native country,
August 20, 1844, on a ship called Patrick Henry, and came directly to Wisconsin.
Foulk Roberts located on section 12, Randolph township, Columbia county and
lived there continually, with the exception of ten months in 1881, when they
lived in the village of Randolph, until their death. Mrs. Roberts passed away
June 17, 1902, and Mr. Roberts January 12, igo8, and they are both buried in
the Blaen-y-Cae cemetery on land which he donated for church and cemetery
purposes. They became the parents of five children. Cathrine, born January
1, 1846, married William Parry, of Milwaukee, and makes her home in that city.
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438
HISTORY OK DODGE COUNTY
Her husband was killed in an elevator accident, January 13, 1902, and is buried
in Randolph. Elizabeth was born September 29, 1849. She married John R.
Owen, of Elba township, where they have resided since that time. However,
they are now living in Randolph and expect to make that place their home.
Sarah, born February 24, 1852, became the wife of Richard P. Wynne, of Mil-
waukee. She died in that city April 8, 1899, and is buried in Blaen-y-Cac ceme-
tery. She left one daughter who has been legally adopted by Elizabeth and John
R. Owen. Mr. Wynne was employed for ten years with Mandcl Brothers and
later worked in the interests of Gimbel Brothers of Milwaukee. After the death
of his first wife he married again and returned to Wales, where he now lives.
Ellen was born November 15, 1854. She married Richard J. Williams and they
arc living on the old homestead in Randolph township, a tract of land upon
which her father settled when he first came to America. The youngest son
born to Mr. and Mrs. Foulk R. Roberts is Robert F., of this review.
Robert F. Roberts was reared at home and received his education in the
public schools of Randolph township. For a number of years he followed
farming and in 1881 settled on a tract of land on section 17, Fox Lake township,
upon which he resided for four years. At the end of that time he disposed of
this property and bought the old homestead in Columbia county and for seven-
teen years gave his entire time and attention to its further improvement and
development. At the end of that time he sold the farm to his brother-in-law and
moved into the village of Randolph, where he established himself in the farm
implement business, drawing his trade almost entirely from local sources. He
proved himself such an able and efficient business man that in 1902 he was nude
secretary and manager of the Randolph Wagon Works and has since devoted his
time to carrying forward the interests of that company. Under his direction the
capital stock has increased from twelve thousand, five hundred dollars to one
hundred thousand dollars and the concern has been put upon a paying basis
This in itself is sufficient proof of Mr. Roberts' executive force and power.
On September 9, 1880, Mr. Roberts married Miss Margaret A. Jones, second
daughter of Owen and Ann Jones, who came from their native country of Wales
in 1847 and settled in Utica, Winnebago county, Wisconsin. They had three
other children: Catherine, who died in 1899; Daniel A., of Milwaukee; and
Mary L., who married E. J. Williams, of Randolph. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts
have two children. Jeannette was born July 27, 1882, and for several years
assisted her father as his stenographer and bookkeeper. On October 11, ion,
she married Bert McCloud, a railroad engineer, but they are now farming her
father's farm on sections 6 and 7, Fox Lake township. A portion of this farm
Mr. Roberts of this review inherited from his uncle, Thomas R. Roberts, who
had owned the property since 1844, when he purchased it from the United States
government. He named it Blaen-y-Cae, meaning first of the field, after his
family's old homestead in Wales. He spent his declining years with Mr. Roberts
of this sketch and died January 26, 1912. He is buried in Blaen-y-Cae cemetery,
by the side of his mother, Cathrine (Foulks) Roberts, with whom he had
located on his farm and with whom he had lived until her death in 1871. {Cather-
ine, the second child born to Mr. and Mrs- Robert F. Roberts, was born July
24, 1887. She was graduated from the Milwaukee Normal School and afterward
taught for five years in the primary department of the school of Randolph. On
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
439
September 18, 1912, she married Everett H. Gilmore and they are living on the
Gilmore homestead, Courtland township, Columbia County. Mr. and Mrs.
Roberts were for many years adherents of the Welsh Calvinist Methodist church
and retained their connection with it until 1901, when they joined the Methodist
Episcopal church of Randolph.
Fraternally Mr. Roberts belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Equitable
Fraternal Union. He is a republican in national politics but on local questions
votes the prohibition ticket and supports earnestly and consistently the principles
and policies of prohibition. He has held many township offices but is not
ambitious to extend his political activity, preferring to devote his entire time to
his business interests, which are capably conducted, making him one of the
leading men of Randolph.
JOHN S. LIGHTNER.
The life and activities of John S. Lightner have been identified with a very
interesting period in the development of the middle western states and have
covered a time which is unique in the history of the growth of Dodge county.
He has seen Randolph grow from an unorganized village into one of the most
flourishing communities in this part of the state and for many years has been
one of the greatest factors in the expansion of its industrial, professional and
trade relations. The history of his active and enterprising career illustrates the
character of his interests and the forceful quality of the man who made them
effective. Mr. Lightner was born September 12, 1839, in Huntingdon county,
Pennsylvania. His father, Adam Lightner, was also a native of that section,
born in 1810, in the same house in which the birth of his son occurred. Thl
grandfather of our subject was a native of Holland and emigrated to America,
leaving a brother in his native land, who became a wealthy business man in that
country, and died possessed of an estate valued at fourteen million dollars, which
on account of no resident relatives in that country went into chancery, the gov-
ernment claiming the estate. Adam Lightner died in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania,
in 1906, when he was ninety-six years of age. His wife was in her maidenhood
Miss Eliza Stryker, a native of New Jersey, from which state she came to
Pennsylvania, where her marriage occurred. Besides the subject of this sketch
eight children were born to this union. William E., the second son, married
Miss Lettie Boyer. He is associate judge of Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania,
where he now resides. The third living son, Addison, is a pharmacist in Ran-
dolph. His wife was in her maidenhood Miss Lettie Epley. Calvin R. Lightner,
the fourth son has been for twenty-five years a practicing physician in St. Louis,
Missouri. He married Miss Allie Elliot of that city. The fifth son born to Mr.
and Mrs. Adam Lightner is Mahlon, who married Miss Jessie Clute, a daughter
of Colonel Clute, of Schenectady, New York. The latter built some of the
iron-clads which were used in the Civil war. Mahlon T., resided in South
Dakota for several years, was a member of the state senate, and is now living
in Los Angeles. California. Edward E. died in West Township, Pennsylvania,
and is buried in that section. Flora A. married S. C. Gilbaugh and lives in
440
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Grafton, Pennsylvania. Mary E. became the wife of Doctor Quinn, of Brock-
wayville, Pennsylvania. One child died at the age of six years.
John S. Lightner, the eldest son, studied in the Mooresville Collegiate Institute
in Mooresville, Pennsylvania, and received his diploma in i860. At the close
ol the school year he came west with three of his fellow students and stopped at
Huntington, Indiana, on his way to Memphis, Tennessee, where he expected to
teach school. He intended also to meet his uncle, Joseph Stryker, who was
afterward appointed by Abraham Lincoln American consul at Fernambuco, Brazil.
Mr. Lightner remained in Huntington for five weeks and during that time the
Civil war broke out and his uncle wrote him not to continue his journey, as all
the teachers in the southern states were going north. Mr. Lightner accordingly
remained in Indiana and made his home with the Rev. Richard Currin, a friend
of his father. In company with Mr. Currin's brother-in-law, Doctor Bartine,
he prepared a lecture, entitled: "The Past, Present and Future," and in Fort
Wayne, Indiana, purchased a magic lantern outfit with which to illustrate his
talk. The two partners traveled extensively, going first to Balkin schoolhouse on
the Mad river, Ohio, and from there they traveled along the Miami river through
the state until winter set in. At the end of the season Doctor Bartine purchased
Mr. Lightner's interest in this business and the latter then purchased an interest
in an auction wagon and after closing out the auction business taught school for
three months in Sadorus, Illinois- This was at the time when wild cat money
was in circulation all over the United States. In Illinois Mr. Lightner possessed
a supply of Wisconsin currency and with it came to Wisconsin to dispose of it
to better advantage. He went to Ripon and there met Doctor Baker, a graduate
physician and pharmacist, under whom he studied medicine and pharmacy and
practiced both professions for six months. At the end of that time he persuaded
Doctor Baker to remove to Randolph, being influenced in this by the opportunities
which the newly organized village afforded and the attractive aspects of the sur-
rounding country. The partners finally established themselves in the drug busi-
ness in Randolph, also practicing medicine, but the many hardships which this
entailed led to the dissolution of their association, Mr. Lightner retaining the
drug business. Doctor Baker afterward moved to Nebraska and died in that
state. Gradually Mr. Lightner became identified with other important business
interests in Randolph and his prosperity is intimately connected with the develop-
ment of the town. Under Cleveland's administration he was appointed post-
master and held that office for two terms, after which he served for twenty-one
consecutive terms as treasurer of the city, giving to his fellow citizens a progres-
sive, upright and straightforward administration.
In 1873 Mr. Lightner married Miss Eva Richmond, a daughter of Riley S.
Richmond, of Randolph, president of the first canning factory ever established
in the city. Mrs. Lightner died in 1906. Mr. Lightner is prominent and well
known in the Masonic order, holding membership in the blue lodge at Fox Lake,
which he joined in 1862; in the chapter, at Beaver Dam, which he joined in 1868;
and in the commandery at Portage, with which he became identified in 1892. He
is also a Knights Templar at Beaver Dam. He is now in the seventy-fourth year
of his age but in spirit and interests seems yet in his prime. He is proud of the
city, in the general expansion of which he has been active and prominent, and
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
441
he is loyal to the institutions and traditions which he has seen established and
developed. His many friends in Randolph honor him not only for his business
connections, which are extensive, and his success, which is undoubted, but for
the energy, honesty, integrity and high-mindedness which made those connections
lasting and the success well merited
ANDREW A. WASHBURN.
As a keen and discriminating business man, an able politician, and above all,
a loyal and public-spirited citizen, Andrew A. Washburn is entitled to the pros-
perity he is now enjoying and to the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens.
He unites in his career success in the real-estate business and in local journalism
with able and competent work as an alderman. His paper, the Horicon Re-
porter, is becoming an increasingly important organ in the community and its
affairs are ably administered from an editorial and business point of view. Mr.
Washburn was born in the city in which he now resides on September 15, 1873,
and is a son of Simon and Ernestina (Discher) Washburn. His father was born
near Montpelier, Vermont, December 13, 1816, and he moved to New York in
his early youth. He spent some years employed in a smelter in that section but
came west in 1849, locating first in Oak Grove, Wisconsin, from whence after
two years he came to Horicon, where for a short time he engaged in the iron
smelting business. Soon after he took up a preemption claim of one hundred and
twenty acres in Williamstown, one mile north of Horicon, and engaged in farm-
ing until he was seventy years of age. He then sold his holdings and moved
into the town where he lived retired until his death which occurred in Septem-
ber, 1901. His wife was a native of Pomerania, Germany, where her birth
occurred on February 12, 1838. She is now residing with the subject of this
sketch. She and her husband became the parents of four children: Charles H.,
who is a farmer and stockman of Polk county, Wisconsin; Emily, who has
passed away ; Freda, who married Carl Grashorn a farmer of Greenwood,
Clark county, who was one of the first to engage in the creamery business in
the state; and Andrew, the subject of this sketch.
Andrew A. Washburn received his early education in the Horicon public
schools and was graduated from the high school with the class of 1893. He
attended afterward the Milwaukee State Normal and finished the course in 1897.
He supplemented this by one year at the University of Wisconsin and has had
the advantage of an excellent education. He made wise use of his opportunities
in this line and fitted himself for teaching. In 1908 he obtained the position as
principal of the Rio school and after one year was engaged as a traveling sales-
man. On January 17, 1900, he purchased a half interest in The Reporter, and a
few months later bought the entire plant and has devoted himself to the opera-
tion of this paper since that time. He is a true journalist, alive to the important
phases of the day's events with an instinct for news and with an editorial facility
in pointing out its bearing and importance. His business discrimination has
made his enterprise successful and the circulation of his paper has increased
from four hundred to over three times that number. Mr. Washburn is also
442
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
engaged in the real-estate business and owns several valuable business buildings
and also a farm near Horicon which he operates himself. He has platted a part
of this land into town lots under the name of the Turner addition, and is inter-
ested in its upbuilding and improvement.
On October 17, 1900, Mr. Washburn was united in marriage to Miss Jessie
Chapman, who was born in Hartford, Wisconsin, October 20, 1875. She is a
daughter of Wallace W. and Lydia (Wilcox) Chapman. Her father was in
early life a carpenter and held the position as head of the St. Paul Railroad crew
for twenty-four years, resigning to accept the office of postmaster in Horicon,
in which capacity he acted until his death which occurred July 1, 1905. He was
a veteran of the Civil war and served as a member of Company E, Tenth Wis-
consin Volunteer Infantry. He spent nineteen months in Andersonville and
Libby prisons and served until the end of the war. To him and his wife were
born three children: Edgar, who was formerly identified with the St. Paul rail-
road at Green Bay, Wisconsin, as train dispatcher, but who is now deceased;
Jessie, the wife of our subject; and Harry, who resides in Horicon and who is
assisting in the operation of The Horicon Reporter.
In his political affiliations Mr. Washburn has been a progressive republican.
He served as delegate to the republican state convention in 1900 when La Fol-
lette was first nominated as governor. In 1904 he was elected to the office of
city clerk. He is now a member of the city council, serving his second term in
this office. He was appointed by the governor in January, 191 1, to represent
this congressional district at the convention of the National Tariff Commission
Association at Washington, D. C. He brings to public life the same ability and
conscientiousness which have distinguished his business and journalistic career
and have made him successful in both. He is affiliated with Horicon Lodge, No.
87, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and with the Modern Woodmen of
America, while Mrs. Washburn is a member of the Rebekahs. There is no man
in Horicon more loyal to the community and to its institutions and more eager
and capable of promoting its progress. He is vice president of the Advance-
ment Association and his strenuous and effective work has been a factor in the
development of the city. He was instrumental in getting for Horicon its water-
works plant, and was among the first to agitate the question. He is an active
force in politics and business and with whatever phase of life he is Connected
is sure to have a distinct and improving influence in the progress of the city. •
Advancement at the bar is proverbially slow and yet Claron Arthur Markham
has made continuous progress since admitted to practice. His success has been
based upon thorough preliminary training and careful preparation of his cases
since entering actively upon the work of the courts. Wisconsin claims him as
a native son, his birth having occurred in Independence, this state, on the 3d of
January, 1878. His parents were Arthur A. and Rose C. (Bishop) Markham,
the former born in England in 1830, and the latter in Wisconsin. The mother
was a daughter of Dr. Collins Bishop, who at one time resided near Horicon,
CLARON ARTHUR MARKHAM.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
443
and was a pioneer physician in this district. The Markham family traces its his-
tory back to 1066, A. D., when Ctaron De Markham went from Normandy to
England with William the Conqueror and was given estates in the latter country.
The family includes a former bishop of York, who figured in early English his-
tory, and many other members of prominence, among them Sir Clemments R.
Markham, until recently president of the Royal Geographical Society of London.
Arthur A. Markham is a brother of Admiral Sir Albert H. Markham, K. C. B.,
of London, who has won fame as a geographer and arctic explorer. For a
quarter of a century he held the record of "farthest north," made in 1876, when
he reached latitude eighty-three degrees, twenty minutes and twenty-six seconds.
It was not until 1896 that Fridtjof Nansen reached a point farther north and
until 1902 that the Duke D'Abruzzi reached a point beyond that. Admiral
Markham made four voyages in search of the north pole, being in command
of the expeditions. He held the highest rank in the British navy and was sec-
ond to the lord of the admiralty. He participated in the Chinese war and in
many naval engagements and was retired as admiral of the fleet of the British
navy. He has written seven or eight geographical and biographical works and
is considered one of the world's authorities upon the subjects of which he treats.
Arthur A. Markham came to the United States in 1856 with his parents,
Captain John and Marianne G. D. Markham, the former at one time connected
with the English navy. Proceeding into the interior of the country, Captain
Markham settled in the wilderness, at what is now Independence, Wisconsin,
where he subsequently lived retired. His son Arthur became connected with
agricultural pursuits, to which he devoted many years but is now living retired
at Independence.
In their family were six children. John A., a graduate of the University of
Minnesota, practiced law in partnership with his brother Claron from 1901
until 1905 and is now living in Independence, where he is filling the office of dis-
trice attorney. Claron A. is the second of the family; Marianne is at home;
Frederick is living on the old home farm at Independence; William H., also a
graduate of the University of Minnesota, is now a practicing attorney residing
at St. Charles, Minnesota; Blanche, who completes the family, is also at home.
At the usual age Claron A. Markham entered the public schools, pursuing
his studies through consecutive grades until he became a high-school student.
He afterward engaged in teaching for two years and subsequently studied law
in the University of Minnesota, from which he was graduated in 1901, the same
year in which his brother John completed his course. They came to Beaver
Dam on the 19th of July, of that year and C. A. Markham has since practiced
in this city, his ability winning him recognition in a large, growing and distinctly
representative clientage. He is strong in his pleadings, his arguments are force-
ful and his deductions follow in logical sequence. He has financial interests here
as one of the stockholders of the German National Bank.
On the 20th of October, 1904, Mr. Markham was married to Miss Mary E.
Westfall, of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, and they have a daughter, Muriel G.
D., at home. Mrs. Markham is a member of the First Presbyterian church and
Mr. Markham has fraternal relations with the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows and the Eagles. His political views accord with the principles of democ-
racy but while probably not without that laudable ambition which is the in-
444 HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
centive to all faithful service in public office, he regards the pursuits of private
life as abundantly worthy of his best efforts and concentrates his time and
energies upon his professional duties in a manner that has made his fidelity
to the interests of his clients proverbial.
MARTIN L. LUECK.
The present irfcumbent of the office of circuit judge, Martin L. Lueck, has
for some years past been recognized as one of the foremost representatives
of the Juneau bar, and during this period he has also figured prominently in
local politics. The success which has come to him has been fraught with the
usual difficulties encountered by the man who strives to establish himself in
the professional circles of his native town, and is therefore deserving of greater
commendation, as it has been won on the sheer strength of thoroughly tried
and tested merit. His birth occurred here on the 24th of July, 1872, his par-
ents being Frederick W. and Wilhelmina (Schauer) Lueck, natives of Ger-
many, and well known residents of Juneau, whose history is more fully given
elsewhere in this work.
Reared at home, Martin L. Lueck was given the advantages of the local
schools, where he pursued his education until graduated from the high school.
He subsequently engaged in teaching, and having resolved to adopt the legal
profession for his life vocation, he later matriculated in the law department of
the University of Wisconsin, receiving his degree with the class of 1894. Im-
mediately thereafter he returned home and established an office as a general
practitioner. Although he was only twenty-two years of age, he was known to
be a young man of serious purpose, who earnestly and diligently applied himself
of the general principles of jurisprudence and his ready grasp of legal tech-
nicalities shortly enabled him to win the confidence of local business men. Step
by step he fought his way, his carefully prepared cases and an able manner of
presenting and defending his points gradually winning him the recognition
which formed the foundation of his now well established reputation. Four
years enabled him to manifest his worth and general efficiency and in 1898 he
was elected to the office of district attorney. He retained this position for four
years and he also served with efficiency as city attorney and mayor, being iden-
tified with the latter office from 1006 until he assumed his present duties. He
has proven entirely adequate to the demands of his position, and is acquitting him-
self in a manner highly satisfactory to his constituency and the community at
large. His decisions manifest a careful deliberation of the points at issue
united with a broad yet just application of the law.
On the 9th of May, 1904, Mr. Lueck was united in marriage to Miss Hedwig
Kuentzel, whose natal day was the 31st of May, 1871. She is a daughter of
William G. and Caroline (Koeding) Kuentzel, natives of Germany, who for
some years were residents of Illinois. From there they came to Wisconsin,
settling at Lowell, this county, whence they later removed to Juneau, locating
here about 1885. The father, who is a minister, has ever since been pastor of
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
445
the German Reformed church of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Kuentzel had two
children, the elder of whom, Paul G., is now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Lueck
there have been born three daughters: Ruth, whose birth occurred on the 14th
of April, 1905; Dorothy, whose natal day was March 14, 1908; and May, who
was born on May I, 191 2.
The parents are members of the German Reformed church and fraternally
Mr. Lueck is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a demo-
crat in his political views and stanchly supports the candidates of that party.
His interests are not entirely confined to his profession but are extended to va-
rious local business enterprises, chief among these being the Oak Point Farms,
of which he is one of the owners. Mr. Lueck's career both as an attorney
and a politician has been of an exceptionally high standard, his integrity and
reliability being above question. His reputation is that of a man whose first
consideration is for the interest of his clients, while his loyalty to his public
duties is too well known to call for comment but is well deserving of the com-
mendation he is generally accorded. He is hightly respected in local profes-
sional circles and is a member of the County, State and National Bar Asso-
ciations.
JOHN DICKINSON.
John Dickinson, an agriculturist who makes a specialty of dairying, owns and
operates a farm of one hundred and sixteen acres in Chester township, which is
the place on which he was born on the 15th of December, 1857. His parents
were Benjamin and Margaret (Cowell) Dickinson, the former born in England
in 1S16 and the latter on the Isle of Man on the 3d of May, 1820. Benjamin
Dickinson emigrated to the United States when about sixteen years of age —
about the same time that Margaret Cowell came to this country with her par-
ents. The maternal grandparents of our subject settled in Dodge county, across
the road from the present home farm of John Dickinson. The parents of Mr.
Dickinson of this review were married in the east and thence came to this county,
settling on the place where he now resides. Benjamin Dickinson purchased this
farm of forty acres from his father-in-law, who later lived with him. Both he
and his wife continued to reside thereon throughout the remainder of their lives,
his demise occurring on the 15th of August, 1881, while Mrs. Dickinson passed
away on the 22d of October, 1898. To them were born six children, of whom
George and Lester died in infancy. William ran away from home as a youth of
sixteen, made his way to Chicago and enlisted for service in the Union army as
a member of the Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry, remaining with that command for
three years. His demise occurred on the 10th of September, 1897. Libby, who
is now deceased, was twice married, her first husband being James Meade, by
whom she had two children : George, who has passed away; and William. After
Mr. Meade's demise she became the wife of David Kiley. Eugene is an agricul-
turist residing at Clarissa, Minnesota.
John Dickinson, the other member of the family, obtained his education in
this county and worked on the home farm with his father until the lattcr's death.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
A few years later he purchased the property, comprising one hundred and six-
teen acres, in the further cultivation and improvement of which he has been
engaged continuously since. He has seventeen head of high-grade cattle and
specializes in dairying, this branch of his business yielding him a gratifying an-
nual income.
Mr. Dickinson was united in marriage in 1882 to Miss Anna Huth, a daugh-
ter of John and Anstein (Listen) Huth, both of whom were born in Germany
and emigrated to the United States following their marriage, settling in May-
ville. Dodge county, Wisconsin. Subsequently they took up their abode near the
home of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Dickinson have two children. Margaret,
who was born in 1882, gave her hand in marriage to Carl Burns and makes her
home at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She is the mother of two children, Hollis,
whose natal day was December 24, 1908; and Ruby Elizabeth, born September
2i, 1912. Clyde Dickinson, who was born on the 14th of July, 1896, is still under
the parental roof.
, Mr. Dickinson gives his political allegiance to the republican party and has
ably served in the capacity of township supervisor for a period of sixteen years.
Fraternally he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belong-
ing to Tululah Lodge, No. 33. He is greatly interested in hunting, indulging
his love of that sport each year in the north woods. Mr. Dickinson is a man of
intelligence and high standards of conduct, whose success is the result of in-
dustry and close application. He is held in high regard in the community where
he has been known from boyhood and numbers among his closest friends many
of the comrades of his school days.
The career of J. D. O'Brien of Randolph well illustrates the value of energy,
ambition and honesty in insuring success. The undoubted prosperity which he
enjoys is directly traceable to his possession of these qualities and to his recogni-
tion and use of an early business opportunity which they brought him. His busi-
ness consists of buying and selling farm lands and residence property in Dodge
county and in this connection he has influenced the development of real-estate
values in this section of the state. He is one of the many energetic, successful,
and progressive men whom Ireland has given to America in such great numbers.
He was born in County Tipperary, in 1852, a son of John and Margaret (De-
laney) O'Brien, both of whom lived and died in Ireland. They had four chil-
dren, among them Michael, who was born in 1854, married Miss Jennie Fleming
and now resides in Burnett county, and J. D., our subject. After the death of
her first husband, the mother of our subject married Patrick Gleason and to this
union were born four children: William, Patrick, Katherine, and Bridget. All
these came to America ; three reside in Auburn, New York, and the other lives
in Toronto, Canada.
J. D. O'Brien remained in Ireland until he was twelve years old, coming to
America in 1866 with his grandmother and aunt, and locating in Auburn, New
York, where he remained for seven years. For a portion of this time he worked
J. D. O'BRIEN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
447
upon a farm and was employed in a carriage and dry-goods store. He also ped-
dled milk in Auburn, but abandoned this occupation before he came to Lost
Lake, Wisconsin. There he worked for one year upon a farm and after that
time came to Randolph, where he engaged in the same kind of work and then
returned to Lost Lake, where for two more years he was employed in farm labor.
He then bought a store at Lost Lake and for twenty-four years was engaged in
business in this place, serving as postmaster of the town for sixteen years during
this period. That he was well thought of and had made many friends is evident
by the fact that he had to borrow sufficient money to buy his first bill of groceries
when he started up in business and easily obtained the money from Michael
McCrea, who willingly let him have a sufficient sum to launch him in his new
departure. Mr. O'Brien has never forgotten this kindly act and is still appre-
ciative of the confidence reposed in him. From Lost Lake he came 'to Randolph
and opened up a store at this place, which he still owns. However, he gives most
of his time to buying and selling real estate and has become prominent in this
connection. There was another friend, a Mr. Richmond of Randolph, who gave
him substantial aid in his career and who let him have enough money to purchase
ten acres of timber land. The money was loaned without security and as an
acknowledgment to Mr. O'Brien's well known integrity, and with this money he
bought this property, cleared the timber and paid back his debt little by little.
This gave him another impetus on his business career and was one of the corner-
stones upon which was founded his success, which now places him among the
deservedly prosperous men of the city.
In 1876 Mr. O'Brien was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Goodwin, and to
their union were born four children, two of whom died in infancy and are buried
in St. Mary's cemetery in Lost Lake. The oldest living child is Elizabeth, who
was born in 1877, ar >d wno married Lawrence Reak. They live upon a farm in
Courtland township, Columbia county. John Edward was born in 1891 and lives
in Madison. He is a graduate of the State University and is engaged in the drug
business. The family belong to St. Mary's Roman Catholic church at Lost
Lake, but attend a church of the same denomination at Fox Lake.
Mr. O'Brien gives his allegiance to the democratic party, and for fourteen
years held the office of town treasurer of Westford, his able and effective work
being evidenced by his long period of service. He is a typical example of the self-
made man, whose first assets were his industry and honesty and he has worked
himself upward until his success is assured. The secret of that prosperity lies
in two things, the ability to use opportunities and the qualities of brain and
character which command them.
CHARLES W. HATHAWAY.
Charles W. Hathaway is a descendant of a fine old American family, his
ancestral line dating back to prerevolutionary times. He exemplifies in his
character the sturdy and energetic virtues of his forefathers and is making his
life which has been devoted to progressive farming, useful and valuable as well
as upright and worthy. He is a native son of Dodge county, having been born
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
upon the farm which he now operates on May II, 1869. He is a son of Charles
W. and Julia Ann (Smith) Hathaway, natives of Lewis county, New York,
and is a descendant of Trumbull Smith, who lived in that section during the
Revolutionary war. He was one of triplets, all of whom lived to be old men.
When they were born General Washington asked for the privilege of naming
them and acted as their godfather. He called one after himself, another after
his friend General Greene of the Continental army and the third in honor of
Governor Trumbull. The first to settle in Wisconsin was Charles W. Hathaway,
the father of our subject. He came to this state about the year 1845 m tne
early days of its settlement and purchased forty acres in Beaver Dam township
which constitutes a part of the present farm operated by our subject. He enlisted
in the Civil war in Company F, First Wisconsin Volunteer Cavalry and served
for three years. After his discharge he returned to Beaver Dam and settled upon
his property on section 36, where he carried on general farming until his death,
which occurred in 1877. His wife is still upon the homestead in the eighty-fifth
year of her age.
Charles W. Hathaway, our subject, was reared at home and was educated
in the district schools of Dodge county. He has never left his father's farm
and is now active in the operation of the original homestead and its additions.
He owns one hundred and twenty acres of land all of which is under cultivation.
Upon this property he does general fanning, specializing in the raising of
potatoes which he sells in the Wisconsin markets. He also engages in stock-
raising and operates a model and sanitary dairy, keeping sixteen high-grade
cows for this purpose and selling his product to the neighboring cheese factory.
He has a number of acres of his land planted in hay and in barley and other
grains and has his fields divided conveniently by barbed wire fences. He feeds
and fattens high-grade Holstein cattle, disposing of all his grain in this way,
with the exception of his barley which he sells. In 1886 he erected a fine barn
one hundred feet long by thirty feet wide, built along the most modern lines of
construction, equipped with cement floors and all modern accessories. All the
improvements which make Mr. Hatha way's farm a model and up-to-date enter-
prise were made by himself or by his father. He is successful as an agriculturist
because his methods are always practical and progressive and he has been rewarded
for his energy and determination by a gratifying degree of prosperity.
In 1888 Mr. Hathaway was united in marriage to Miss Carrie D. Hennig, a
daughter of Christian and Georgiana ( Snickenburger) Hennig, the former a
native of Switzerland and the latter of Germany. They came to America in
early life settling in Dodge county where the father took an active part in
political life for some time, holding various public offices. He passed away in
1886 and was survived by his wife until 1910. Mrs. Hathaway was the second
of eight children born to their union, her natal day being April 21, 1866. She
and her husband have four children: Nelson, who resides in Beaver Dam;
Clarence R., a resident of Hartford; Charles W., who is married and makes his
home in Waterloo, Iowa; and Martha G., who lives at home.
In his political affiliations Mr. Hathaway is a stanch republican and has
always taken an intelligent interest in the affairs of his community. He served
for one year as township assessor and in 1910 was United States census enumer-
ator in Beaver Dam township. He is interested in education and for five years
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
was a member of the school board, serving as clerk and director of that body.
His life has been principally devoted to agricultural pursuits and his farming
has been successful from the beginning. He learned the rudiments of the
occupation by personal experience and hard work upon his father's property and
became acquainted at an early date with the most approved methods of cultiva-
tion and with the details necessary to the management of an up-to-date agricultural
enterprise. He has devoted his entire time to making his farm modern and
up-to-date in every particular and has attained a degree of success which is the
outcome of his intelligence and industry.
JOHN REYNOLDS JONES, M. D.
Dr. John Reynolds Jones has been practicing medicine in Randolph for over
twenty-five years and is one of the jnost prominent and popular physicians of
that city. During his active years he built up a large and flourishing practice,
his scientific efficiency and personal qualifications being known and recognized,
but of late years he has confined himself principally to office work, having turned
over the more arduous duties to his son. He was born near Bala, Wales, October
6, 1851, a son of John Jones, whose birth occurred in the same section in April,
1808. The father never came to America, but died in Wales in 1864. In his
family were six children. Eleanor, the eldest child, married David Jones and
lived in Wales until her death, which occurred in 1909. She had two sons, one
of whom is residing in South Africa, and the other is teaching in Bangor, Wales.
Jane, Edward, Elizabeth and Margaret, the youngest members of the family,
died of typhoid fever, two of them being buried in one day.
Dr. John R. Jones remained in his native country until he was nineteen
years of age and his education was received in its public schools. Crossing the
Atlantic in 1870 he settled first in Utica, New York, whence after one year he
came to Evanston, Illinois, where he conducted a drug store during the winter.
In the spring of the same year he returned to Utica and there became connected
with the photographic business as an employe for Mr. Pillsbury. From Utica
he went to Savannah, Georgia, and from Savannah to Liverpool, England, arriv-
ing in Liverpool, January, 1872. In the same year he went to Carnarvon, Wales,
and was there employed in a drug store, having become an expert pharmacist
in his youth. Returning to America soon he settled in Racine, Wisconsin, in
May, 1872, and there established himself in the drug business, conducting the
fifth store of this kind in the city. This enterprise he managed for some time
but finally sold it in order to take up the study of medicine. He entered Rush
Medical College in Chicago, but completed his studies in the University of Iowa
from which institution he was graduated in 1878, with the degree of M. D.
For three months he practiced at Fox Lake and went from there to Fall river,
Wisconsin, settling in that city, October 1, 1878. There he remained until 1883
in which year he moved to Racine, and after two years in that city went to
Emporia, Kansas. While in Racine, Wisconsin, he was commissioned assistant
surgeon of the Wisconsin National Guards. He was engaged in the general
practice of medicine in Emporia, Kansas, until July, 1887, when he moved to
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Randolph and has followed his profession in this city since that time. His skill,
knowledge, and efficiency are beyond all question and they have been proven
by over a quarter of a century of successful labor and are attested by his popu-
larity among his patients and fellow practitioners. A keen student of the under-
lying principles of medicine Dr. Jones has added to his technical knowledge the
practical experience which makes it effective and his work is of a lasting and
useful kind which is always the result of a life spent in the service of others.
On October i, 1872, Dr. Jones was married in Racine, to Miss Mary Ann
Peate, a daughter of William Peate, of Wales. They became the parents of
six children. The eldest son, Edward, was born July 8, 1873, and died in Septem-
ber, 1874. He is buried in Racine*. Catherine, whose birth occurred September
24, 1874, married William J. Williams, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Arthur Wil-
liam is associated with his father in the practice of medicine. He is a twin of
Otto John, born August 14, 1876. Both live at home. The fifth child born to
Dr. and Mrs. Jones is Mary Jane. Her birth occurred in January, 1881, and
she is the wife of Edward W. Brandel, cashier of the Randolph Bank. J. I.,
the youngest child, was born in April, 1887. He is a graduate pharmacist, hold-
ing the degree from the State University at Madison and he passed his examina-
tion before the Wisconsin state board before he was twenty-one years of age.
He is now in the employ of John S. Lightner, of Randolph.
Dr. Jones has now practically given up his extensive practice and has turned
it over to his son Arthur William, who is associated with him. The latter
attends to all calls and to the more arduous duties, his father confining himself
to a small office practice.
Dr. Jones, although he is intelligently interested in the growth and develop-
ment of Randolph, takes no active part in politics. He is a member of the
Masonic order and of the Knights of Pythias and is also prominent in the affairs
of the Odd Fellows. He does not belong to any religion but states that "the
world is his church." . He was one of the early physicians in Randolph and has
seen the village develop and grow. His work has been a factor in its progress
and, although it has been of an unostentatious kind, it has brought him wide-
spread popularity and well deserved success.
Andrew Frank was born October 31, 1864, in Washington county, this state,
and resides on a highly productive farm of two hundred and forty acres on sec-
tions 33 and 34, Trenton township. He follows farming along progressive and
up-to-date lines and has attained well merited success. He specializes in dairying
giving a great deal of care and attention to the details of this branch of his activi-
ties, and also breeds hogs and heavy draft horses. He has made nearly all of the
improvements on his property and his farm stands today as a monument to his
industry, perseverance and progressiveness. His parents were John and Christina
(Barngesser) Frank, natives of Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, born near the Rhein.
They were married in the fatherland and came to America on their wedding trip
ANDREW FRANK.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
453
in 1856, settling in the town of Hartford, Washington county, Wisconsin, where
the father bought forty acres of unbroken land. He cleared his tract and put it
under cultivation, making his home thereon until the fall of 1873, when he bought
seventy acres, about one and a half miles north of his first farm, and moved on
this property, residing there today in his eightieth year. The mother passed away
in 1891, at the age of sixty-three years, and is buried in the Hartford cemetery.
Andrew Frank was seventh in order of birth in a family of eleven children.
He was reared at home and received his education in the district schools of the
neighborhood. He made himself useful on his father's farm, where he became
acquainted with proficient methods of agriculture, until he reached his majority,
when he left the parental roof to seek employment. He entered the service of
an ice company and was so employed for eight years. In 1890 he came to Dodge
county and settled upon eighty acres of land, which form part of the place upon
which he now resides. He did not buy this land outright but acquired it by pur-
chase two years after he made his residence thereon and has since then added to
it from time to time until the farm now comprises two hundred and forty acres.
Beside this valuable property he is also the owner of eighty acres in the town of
Rock, Wood county. Mr. Frank settled on the former property shortly after his
marriage and has been here engaged in general farming ever since. All of his land
is ready for the plow except three acres, which is in valuable timber. He follows
general farming and engages extensively in stock-raising. He has a herd of thirty-
two cows, which he milks for his dairy, and he also breeds for the market. He
raises pure-bred Chester White hogs and also breeds to Belgian and Percheron
horses. All of the grain and hay which he raises on the farm is used for feeding
his stock. In 1910 he built on his place a handsome, modern residence of thir-
teen rooms, equipped with running water, cold and hot, using the latter also for
heating purposes. In 1905 he built a thoroughly modern and sanitary barn, forty
by one hundred feet with cement floors, and in 1907 constructed a silo. The
water supply for the farm is derived from drilled wells, which are operated by
gasoline engines. All the improvements upon his property were placed thereon
by our subject and are due to his indefatigable labor and industry.
Mr. Frank was married, September 23, 1890, to Miss Bertha H. J. Kolell, a
daughter of August and Henrietta (Hildebrand) Kolell, who were natives of
Germany and were married in this county. The mother passed away in 1882, at
the early age of thirty-eight, and found her last resting place in the Lutheran
cemetery in the town of Herman. The father makes his home at Columbus, Wis-
consin, with a daughter, having attained the age of sixty-nine years. Mrs. Frank
was the eldest of eleven children and was born February 6, 1865. To Mr. and
Mrs. Frank six children have been born, namely: William, born July 19, 1891, at
home; Mary, who died aged fifteen months; Oscar, born November 11, 1896, at
home; Benjamin, who died in infancy; August, born December 8, 1898, at home;
and Elsie, who died at the age of two years.
Mr. Frank is a republican and has always taken a deep interest in local public
affairs, especially those of an educational character. He has served for fifteen
years on the school board and has been filling the position of treasurer of this board
for nine years. For seven years he has been statistical commissioner. Mr. Frank
and his family arc faithful members of the Lutheran church of Fox Lake, in the
affairs of which they take an active interest. Mr. Frank has not only gained
v*. n-ze
454
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
material success for himself but, as his work has been along lines which have made
for progress in agricultural methods, it Has been a factor in the general develop-
ment of this section and his labors have been of unquestioned benefit to the com-
munity. His public spirit is widely recognized and all who know him esteem and
honor him for his qualities of heart and mind.
John Clifford, who for the past five years has been efficiently discharging the
duties of clerk of the courts, is another of Dodge county's estimable native sons,
who as a private citizen and public servant, Has rendered the community worthy
and commendable service. He was borri in Emmet township on the 5th of
November, 1873, and in both the paternal and maternal lines represents families
who were actively identified with the early agricultural development of the
county. His grandfather, John Clifford, was a native of Ireland, but he emi-
grated to America in early life, first settling in New York and later residing in
Canada for eight years. He was one of the pioneer settlers of the town of
Emmet, in what is now the sixth ward of Watertowrl. Later he took up a farm
four miles north of Emmet. He was a man of energy and cooperated with his
fellow settlers in forwarding the progress of the community by assisting in the
development of the roads and the various other public utilities. While the family
lived in Watertown, on September 20, 1844, was born his son Dominic, the father
of our subject and one of the well known residents of Juneau. Upon attaining
his manhood, he also directed his energies along agricultural lines, engaging in
general farming and stock-raising until 1886, when he came to Juneau and
engaged in the saloon business, which he conducted until 1891. In the latter
year he withdrew from active business and has since been living retired. He
chose for his wife Miss Ellen Kelly to whom he was married on the 25th of
January. 1872. She is also a native of Dodge county, her birth having occurred
on the 8th of November, 1850. To them have been born six children: Michael
William and Dominic Francis, proprietors and editors of The Independent ;
John, our subject; Eugene A., city attorney of Juneau; Julia who is living at
home; and a son, Edward, who died in infancy in i88t. Mr. Clifford, the father,
is a progressive democrat and has always taken an active and helpful interest in
local politics, and while residing in Emmet township held various offices, includ-
ing that of chairman for four years. Both he and his wife are communicants of
the Roman Catholic church.
John Clifford is in every way a true son of Dodge county, having passed his
entire life here. He began his education in the district schools of his town and
completed it in the Juneau high school, from which he was graduated with the
class of 1890. At the age of sixteen years, he became deputy clerk of courts
and served five years, resigning to devote his entire time to newspaper work.
Together with his brother, M. W., he engaged in the newspaper business in 1893,
founding The Independent of Juneau. From the beginning they advocated
bimetallism and the principles of democracy as enunciated by Jefferson and
JSryan. Mr. Clifford gave his entire attention to this journal until December,
JOHN CLIFFORD.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
455
1906. He has always been a democrat in politics and was elected on that ticket
to his present office in November of that year and about a month before assum-
ing the duties of his office sold his interests to his brothers. He has not entirely
severed his connection with local business interests, however, as he is presi-
dent of The Home Investment Company. This is one of the largest real-estate
concerns in the county and represents among its officials some of the leading
business men. E. A. Clifford, a brother of the subject, is vice president; Paul
A. Hemmy, whose biography appears elsewhere in this work, is secretary; A. A.
Nowak is treasurer; and Arthur R. Hemmy, auditor. They deal exclusively in
local properties, and as they are all known to be men of high business principles,
have negotiated some of the leading real-estate transfers made during the period
of their organization.
On the 8th of October, 1908, Mr. Clifford was united in marriage to Miss
Emma M. Bohnert, who was born in Hustisford township and is a daughter of
August and Henrietta (Bellack) Bohnert. The father was' for many years
engaged in farming here but is now living retired in Lowell. Of this marriage
there have been born two sons: John Dominic, on September 30, 1909; and Wil-
liam Bryan, born November 2, 1912. Mr. Clifford is a member of the Roman
Catholic church, and Mrs. Clifford of the Lutheran church.
He belongs to a number of fraternal and benevolent societies, and is venerable
consul of Camp 1816 of M. W. A. of Juneau. Mr. Clifford has held numerous
positions of honor and trust as follows: city clerk, Juneau, 1897-8; justice, 1899-
1906; commissioner on public works, 1904-1910, and secretary thereof the first
two years; secretary, democratic county committee, 1 902-1906; democratic can-
didate for chief clerk of Wisconsin assembly, 1905 ; elected clerk of courts, fourth
term, 1912. Mr. Clifford has proven to be a very capable official, fulfilling his
duties with a rare sense of conscientious obligation, thus sustaining the confidence
of his constituency and proving the wisdom of their choice.
CLINTON E. SMITH.
In 1909 Clinton E. Smith moved into the village of Randolph after many
years' close identification with business and agricultural interests of Randolph
township. Here he has become well known and popular in the public life of the
district and has evidenced in his discharge of the important affairs under his
direction the ability which makes his public spirit effective. He was born
September 26, 1850, in Clinton, Massachusetts, a son of Alonzo E. and Sarah
(Warner) Smith. His father was for many years prominent in the hotel and
restaurant business in various parts of Wisconsin. He was born September 25,
1820, in Cabot, Vermont, and came to this state in 1855, settling in Waupaca,
where he conducted a hotel for a number of years. In 1866 he moved to Beaver
Dam and there bought the Clark House from Mrs. Haight, who was then its
owner, and this enterprise he conducted until about 1871, when he turned over
the management to his son, Clinton, and moved to Minnesota Junction and pur-
chased the Minnesota Junction Eating House. He retained his identification
with this concern for two or three years and then became connected with a
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
similar enterprise in Elroy, Wisconsin. In the meantime, in 1874, he traded the
Clark House to Mr. Dunham, receiving in exchange a farm near Randolph in
Columbia county. Having about this time become proprietor of the Stevens
House in Beaver Dam, he also exchanged this with Mr. Dunham for an addi-
tional forty acres of land near Randolph. Upon these tracts he made all the
improvements, erecting substantial buildings and installing labor-saving ma-
chinery. In Elroy, Alonzo E. Smith remained about five years and from there
removed to the village of Randolph, where he remained for one year, and then
again became connected with hotel keeping, buying the Corning House in
Portage. After two years' successful conduct of this enterprise he sold the hotel
to Mr. Fosgate and came to his farm near Randolph, upon which he remained
for one year. • At the end of that time he moved to Markesan and engaged in the
general merchandise business for three, or four years. Selling out this enterprise
eventually, he retired from active life and moved to Randolph, where he resided
until his death in 1900. His wife was in her maidenhood Miss Sarah Warner
and she also was a native of Cabot, Vermont. Six children were born to their
union, of whom two died in infancy and are buried in Vermont. Edna, whose
birth occurred August 12, 1853, married in 1881 Dwight Illsley. She died in
June, 1888, and is buried in Randolph, where she had lived since her marriage.
Edwin W. was born in Waupaca, Wisconsin, in 1863. He lived in Randolph
township until his death in May, 1912, and is buried in Randolph. Fred, twin to
Edwin, died at the age of one year and is buried in Waupaca. Clinton E., our
subject, completes the family. The mother of our subject died in 1895 and is
buried beside her husband.
Clinton E. Smith was only five years of age when his parents came to
Wisconsin. He began his education in the public schools of Waupaca and also
attended school in the various other parts of the state in which his father located.
In 1 87 1 he assumed management of the Clark House in the interest of his father
and conducted this enterprise until 1873, when he was elected city treasurer of
Beaver Dam. In this office he discharged his duties ably and conscientiously
and won widespread approval. From Beaver Dam he went to Elroy, Wisconsin,
and entered the Railroad Eating House, with his father. Finally, however, he
moved to his father's farm near Randolph and became connected with the
agricultural life of the section, giving his entire attention to the improvement
and development of the land. Upon this property he lived until 1909 and then
moved into the village of Randolph, where he, has since resided. He has become
interested and prominent in industrial circles in connection with the canning
business, being president of the Randolph and Bonnie Mead canning factories.
Mr. Smith married, on November 2, 1871, Miss Laura Armstrong, a daughter
of A. H. Armstrong, of Trenton township, who was for some time widely known
in that section, but who later moved to Randolph and made his home with his
daughter until his death in 1905. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two children : Edna,
who was born in Trenton township, July 18, 1873, and who married Fred Martin,
of Hartford; and Jessie, who was born in October, 1875, in Elroy and who
married L. W. Blatchley, with whom she resides on her father's farm.
Mr. Smith is well known in the Masonic order, being a Royal Arch Mason
and a Knight Templar since 1871. In his political views he is a democrat. In
1890 he was elected to the legislature and did much constructive work while in
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
457
office, standing steadily for right and progress and supporting only those move-
ments which had for their object the general growth and advancement. Since
coming to Randolph he has had the leisure to devote himself more steadily to
local public affairs and he has served his fellow citizens ably in many capacities.
He is president of the Dodge County Fair Association, and was a member of the
county board of Columbia county. He has been chairman of the town of
Randolph several times, his conscientious administration winning him several
reelections. As a public official no breath of suspicion has ever been connected
with his name and no trust reposed in him has he ever neglected or betrayed.
JOHN MOLTHEN.
John Molthen, who was born June 26, 1870, in Houghton county, Michigan,
makes his home on two hundred and eighty acres on section 14, Trenton town-
ship, which he rents. His industry and energy have found substantial reward in
a most gratifying degree of prosperity. He has now followed agricultural
pursuits along progressive and modern lines for a number of years in this
township and notable success has attended his efforts. His parents, Frederick
and Madaline (Enderlie) Molthen, were natives of Germany and Switzerland,
respectively, whence they emigrated to the United States, locating in Michigan,
where they were married. There the father was engaged in mining until 1876,
when he came to Wisconsin and bought a farm in TrentOn township, this county,
on which he made his home until 1904- He had been successful in his under-
takings and had accumulated a competence which permitted him to retire, and
in that year he removed to Beaver Dam, where he passed away on May 21, 1907.
The mother survived only a few years, dying June 23, 1910. The father was
eighty-two years of age and the mother seventy-three at the time of their deaths,
and both are buried in Oakwood cemetery at Beaver Dam.
John Molthen was the seventh of eight children. He was reared at home
and received his early education in the district schools near his father's farm
and subsequently assisted his father in the work on the home place, gaining
valuable knowledge of the details of agriculture. He remained under the parental
roof until he was married in 1891. Mr. Molthen engages in general farming
and pays special attention to stock-raising. He has a herd of thirty-one cows and
sells his milk to the cheese factories. He specializes in high-grade Holstein and
Durham cattle. He also raises pure-bred Poland China hogs and markets annually
about fifty to seventy-five. All the hay and grain of his farm is used for stock
feeding, but the barley which he raises he sells in the market.
Mr. Molthen was united in marriage, on January 11, 1891, to Miss Mamie
Venie, a daughter of Julius and Eugenia (Heppe) Venie, natives of Switzerland
and New York state respectively. The parents were married in Wisconsin and
afterward removed to Missouri, where they resided for one year, when they
returned to Wisconsin and lived on the homestead which the father acquired in
Calamus township until 1898. In that year they removed to Reesevillc, Wis-
consin, where they made their home until 1906, when they went to Minneapolis,
Minnesota, where they now make their home. The father has reached the age
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of sixty-eight and the niother is in her sixtieth year. Mrs. Molthen was the
third of five children^ born February 16, 1874. To Mr. and Mrs. Molthen have
been born three children: Erwin G.; born June 12, 1893; Lester J., born March
2 4 1895; dnd Ethel M., born October 6, 1901. All of the children are yet under
the parental roof.
Mr. Molthen takes a laudable interest in the public life of trie community in
which he lives but he has never aspired to public office His affiliations are with
the republican party but in local issues he votes irrespective of party lines,
following his own judgment as to whom to support for office. Mr. and Mrs.
Molthen are well and favorably known in the community in tvhich they have
made their home for many years and they are accorded the esteem of a large
circle of friends. The success he has attained along agricultural lines thus far
is but a promise of what the future holds in store for him.
FRED T. BUTTERBRODT
Fred T. Butterbrodt is a native of the fatherland and a than who brings
German industry and thrift to his labors as an agriculturist, rte is residing on
section 19, Burnett township, where he is active in the operation of one hundred
and seventy-riine acres of excellent land. He was born on July 23, 1862, and
is a son Of August and Minnie (Kuehn) Butterbrodt, who came from Germany
to America in 1864 and settled in Dodge courtty in Beaver Darii.
Mr. Butterbrodt is third in a family of ten children. He was educated in the
public schools of Dodge county and remained at home until he was twenty-five
years of age. At that time he purchased land in Oak Grove township, buying at
that time eighty-five acres which he cultivated, developed and improved for over
twenty years. During the time he made his farm one of the most productive
in the district and developed his holdings along systematic lines. In 1908 he
invested in one hundred and seventy-nine acres in BUrrtett and Trenton town-
ships and upon this land he is living at the present time. His farm is a model
for other agricultural properties in the section. His entire holdings are fenced
with barb and woven Wire and two acres are fenced hog-tight. There was a barn,
thirty- four feet by one hundred and twenty- four, upor 1 the land when he pur-
chased it, and this he is now using: He has built a l>eautiful ten-room home
equipped with all modern conveniences, which he occupied in the fill of 191 r.
A drilled well gives him an adequate water supply for all purposes. He plants
his fields in barley and other grains and raises a large quantity of corn for
feeding his full-blooded Berkshire hogs. He is also interested in the breeding
and raising of Percheron horses and graded Holstein cattle, lie is one of the
expert stock-raisers in the section in which he reside? and he keeps his cows
mostly for dairy purposes, but also sells in the Wisconsin markets and has added
materially to his income in this way. He is a stockholder in the Champion Dairy
Cheese factory of Burnett and is an active fdctor in the development of Dodge
county.
Mr. Butterbrodt was married in Beaver Dam. March 14, 188^, to Miss Cora
Zepp, a daughter of Jacob and Maggie (Frey) Zepp. residents of Lowell, Wis-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
459
consin. Mrs. Butterbrodt was fourth in a family of nine children and her birth
occurred in Lowell, April 9, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Butterbrodt are the parents of
four children. Alma, Elizabeth, Irvin and Ada, all of whom are at home. The
family arc regular attendants at the German Lutheran church of Beaver Dam.
Mr. Butterbrodt votes the democratic ticket, being a firm believer in the
principles and policies which that party advocates but he is not otherwise active
in political affairs and never seeks public office. His labors have been productive
of results because his methods are consistently up-to-date, and practical and he
has helped to develop farming along scientifically progressive lines.
GEORGE W. SMITH.
One of the most attractive and best improved properties of Burnett township
is Pleasant View Stock Farm, which comprises two hundred and ninety-three
acres of sections 8 and 9 and is the property of George W. Smith, one of the
substantial citizens and capable business men of that community. He is one
of Dodge county's excellent native sons, his birth having occurred in this
township on the 22d of February, 1859. The parents, Eldredge and Susan
(Lukens) Smith, were natives respectively of the states of New York and
Pennsylvania, and of Irish and German extraction. The grandfather's name
was Trumbull Smith and he was one of triplets. George Washington hap-
pened to pass through the locality where the family home was located and espe-
cially rode over to see the boys. He asked permission to christen them and gave
them the names of George — after himself — and Trumbull and Green. The father,
Eldredge Smith, came to Wisconsin in 1842 with his wife, whose maiden name was
Lavina Cooper. They came directly to Dodge county, first settling in the vicinity
of Beaver Dam, and here his wife passed away. From there he later removed
to Rolling Prairie, this township, and purchased two hundred and twenty acres
of raw land. Having resolved to make it his home, he set about developing his
farm with a diligence which enabled him to transform it into one of the
attractive and valuable properties of the community. Mr. Smith had in the
meantime married the mother of our subject and here both parents passed the
remainder of their lives, the father's death occurring in 1904, at the venerable
age of eighty-seven years, while the mother, who died in the spring of 1894,
was sixty-five at the time of her demise. They were laid to rest in Oakwood
cemetery at Beaver Dam. To them were born three children, our subject being
the second in order of birth, and to Mr. Smith and his first wife were horn
three sons.
The first twenty-one years in the life of George W. Smith were passed on the
parental homestead, in very much the same manner as that of other farmer
lads. He was educated in the district schools, and while engaged in the mastery
of the common branches was qualifying himself for the career of an agriculturist
by assisting his father with the" tilling of the fields and caring of the crops.
Soon after attaining his majority he left home and began farming for himself
•as a renter. Two years later he removed to his present place of residence, which
he leased for four years and then purchased it. His entire tract is fenced with
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
barbed wire, fifteen acres of it hog tight. He is practical and progressive in his
methods, as is readily evidenced by the general appearance and condition of his
place. A hundred and eighty acres of the two hundred and fifty he has under
cultivation have been tiled, twelve carloads of tiling having been required for the
purpose, and where necessary the remainder is ditched. His land is largely
planted to such cereals as can be used in the feeding of stock, as in connection
with diversified farming he engages in dairying and stock-raising. He now has
sixty head of cattle, all pure-bred Shorthorns, and he is also breeding Poland
China hogs and Perch eron horses. Mr. Smith takes great pride in his farm and
each year marks a noticeable improvement in the place. In 1904, he built a
substantial ten-room house, equipped with a hot air heating plant and a water
system with tank pressure. The barn, which is forty-five by seventy-six feet,
was on the place when he came, but it has since been provided with a cement
floor and patent stanchions. There are ample sheds and outbuildings about the
premises for the shelter of the stock and grain and his equipment comprises
everything essential to his business.
In 1879, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Addie Hyland, a daughter of George
and Margaret (Sanborn) Hyland, the father a native of Vermont and the
mother of New Hampshire. The mother had been previously married and was
the widow of Amasa Hyland, who founded Hyland Prairie, where he owned
four hundred and forty acres of land. Mrs. Hyland, who passed away in 1862,
at the age of thirty-seven years, was the mother of five children, one of whom
was born of her first marriage. Mrs. Smith, who is the youngest of the family,
was born on April 10, i860. The father long survived the mother, his death
occurring in 1902, at the age of seventy-six. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been
born four children: Roy'L., a resident of Beaver Dam, who is married and has
four children; Ray St. Elmo, who is residing at home; Leo G., born March 30,
1898; and George W. Jr., who was born February 22, 1900.
The parents are active workers in the Free Baptist church of Burnett, of
which Mr. Smith is one of the deacons. Fraternally he is affiliated with the
Masonic order. His political support he accords to such men and measures as
he deems best adapted to subserve the interest of the people, irrespective of party.
He is public-spirited in matters of citizenship and is interested in all local affairs,
particularly those pertaining to education, having been clerk of the school board
for twenty-seven years, while for two he was chairman of the township.
Diligent and enterprising, Mr. Smith stands for progress in his community, where
he is held in high respect by reason of his excellent personal qualities and his
honorable methods of conducting his business transactions.
Rev. Henry A. Velte, pastor of St. Mary's Roman Catholic church at Huber-
ville, is a fine example of an earnest and sincere clergyman. Since his ordina-
tion to the priesthood in 1906 he has been a factor in the spreading of Catholic
doctrines in Wisconsin, achieving his success by useful, valuable and practical*
work. He was born in Milwaukee, July 18, 1881, a son of John and Regina
REV. HENRY A. VELTE.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
4«1
(Multhauf ) Velte. The father was born in Germany in 1845 an d came to America
when he was eighteen years of age, settling in Milwaukee, where he was in the
employ of the Falk Company. He died in 1889. His wife was a native of Oak
Creek, bom in 1851. She married the father of our subject in 1871, and passed
away in Milwaukee in 1892. Both are buried in Calvary cemetery. They became
the parents of three chidren : Edwin, who died in infancy and who is buried in
New Coeln, Wisconsin, Johanna, whose birth occurred in Milwaukee, and who
is acting as housekeeper for her brother; and Henry A., the subject of this sketch.
Father Velte received his primary education in the parochial schools of
Milwaukee and pursued his philosophical studies at St. Johns University, Col-
legeville, Minnesota. He was prepared for the priesthood in St. Francis' Semi-
nary near Milwaukee. His ordination occurred when he was twenty-five years
of age and he came immediately to Beavor Dam, where he was assistant to Father
Zimmer. He afterward served under Father Muenzer, coming to Huberville on
the 16th of February, 191 1. Here he took charge of St. Mary's church and has
since been active in its management. He is a member of the Knights of Colum-
bus and well known in the affairs of that organization. For six years he has
labored steadily for the advancement of religion and for its implanting in the
hearts of his people, combining a firm faith and upright principles with the
administrative ability to make his beliefs effective, and has made his work con-
vincing by personally adhering to the principles which he professes.
JULIUS VOIGT.
Julius Voigt resides upon twenty-five acres of land on section 29, Lebanon
township, and gives his attention to general fanning and to working at the
mason's trade. He was born in Germany, April 29, 1863, a son of August and
Minnie (Bliese) Voigt, who came to America in June, 1869, an ^ settled in
Emmet township upon a farm. Some years later they moved to Lebanon town-
ship, where the father purchased sixteen acres of land which he improved and
upon which he resided for twenty years. At the end of* that time he dis-
posed of the property and bought ninety acres on section 19, upon which he
lived until his death, which occurred in 1902, when he was sixty-nine years of
age. His wife died in the spring of 1909, when she was seventy-four years old.
Both are buried in Lebanon cemetery.
Julius Voigt is the eldest in a family of three children. His brother, John, and
his sister, Martha, make their home with him upon his farm in Lebanon town-
ship. He was educated in the district schools and remained at home until after
his mother's death. In the spring of 1909 he and his family together with his
brother and sister moved upon the property upon which they now reside, renting
out the homestead. Mr. Voigt is a mason by trade and works occasionally at
this occupation, gaining success in both lines by reason of his industry and well
directed energy.
In 1000 Mr. Voigt was united in marriage to Miss Eva Pankow, a daughter
of Rev. Erdman Pankow, who was for many years pastor of the Lutheran church
462
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
in Lebanon township. He died in 1907, when he was eighty-eight years of
age. His wife makes her home with her daughter in Marshfield. Mrs. Voigt
is the fifth in a family of eight children and was born March 26, 1870. She
and her husband have four daughters, Agnes, Dorothy, Juliana and Emma.
The family are members of the Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran church.
Mr. Voigt is a democrat and active in political affairs, serving at the present
time as clerk of the township. He acted for one year as township assessor and
is now clerk of the school board, bringing to the more public aspects of his life
the same energy and conscientiousness which have made his business career
successful.
CHARLES F. GREBEL.
One of the most active, successful and progressive farmers of Westford
township is Charles F. Grebel, who owns two hundred and ten acres of fine land
on section 6, highly improved and developed along systematic and practical
lines. He was born in Chester, Wisconsin, November 10, 1866, and is a son
of Herman and Dorothy (Hanf) Grebel, natives of Germany. His father came
to America at the age of fourteen and settled with his parents on a farm near
Milwaukee. They moved from this property to one in Chester township and
there the father of our subject resided until his death in 1893. He is buried
in Oakwood cemetery in Beaver Dam. The mother of our subject also came
to America when she was a child. At the age of eight she settled in Milwau-
kee, where her father conducted a profitable blacksmith shop for a number of
years. Mr. and Mrs. Herman Grebel had ten children. August married Fran-
ces Young, who died in 1892 and is buried in Oakwood cemetery at Beaver Dam.
Of this union were born five children. He later wedded Miss Ida Zimmermdnn, a
daughter of F. F. Zimmermann, of Waupun. Hannah passed away at the age
of four and is buried in Beaver Dam. Lena married Jacob Martin, of Beaver
Dam, who died in 191 1 and is buried in Oakwood cemetery. Mrs. Martin
makes her home in Beaver Dam with her six children. Martha wedded Jacob
Boose and lived in Waupun until her death, January 1, 1905. She and her
husband had two sons and two daughters. Edward married Mary Davidson,
of Waupun, and now makes his home in Green Bay. He has three children.
Annie married Daniel Boose, who died in De Smet, South Dakota. She resides
in Beaver Dam with her two children. John was born in 1864. He married
Anna Rauber and they reside in Waupun with their two daughters. Hannah
was born in 1868 and resides in Beaver Dam. Grace was born in 1871. She
married Charles Anspach, of Randolph. The youngest son born to Mr. and
Mrs. Herman Grebel is Charles, of this review.
The last named has always been connected with agricultural interests in
Wisconsin. As a boy he worked upon his father's farm near Atwater and
finally secured possession of it by purchase. He operated and managed it until
1901, when he disposed of his holdings in that section and bought two hundred
and ten acres of land on section 6, Westford township, which he has cultivated
since that time. By steadily adhering to progressive methods he had gained a
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463
success in eleven years which places him among the representative and substan-
tial fanners of this district.
Mr. Grebel married, on February 22, 1898, Miss Mattie D. Madigan, a
daughter of John and Helen Madigan, of Trenton, Wisconsin. They became
the parents of five children. Mary Florence was born June 19, 1900, and died
on the 8th of March, 1907. She is buried in Trenton cemetery. Charles Arthur
was born February 10, 1903. He died on the 28th of March, 1906, and is also
buried in Trenton cemetery. Helen Angela was born October 28, 1905, and
lives at home. John David was born June 23, 1907, and is also with his par-
ents. The youngest child born to Mr. and Mrs. Grebel is Paul Grant, whose
birth occurred October 21, 191 1.
Mr. Grebel and his wife are members of the Equitable Fraternal Union.
Politically he gives his allegiance to the democratic party but has never desired
office, preferring to do service to the public by leading a worthy life. He is
interested in the welfare of his section and during the years of his residence has
won for himself a creditable position as a valued citizen and a progressive
farmer.
JOHN B. BECKER.
Political and business circles of Juneau have profited by the activities of
John B. Becker, who has given his attention for the past twenty-four years to
the promotion of various important local enterprises and has also become a
prominent figure in public affairs. He was born in Herman township, Sep-
tember 2, 1864, a son of John Becker, a native of Germany. His father came
to Wisconsin when this state was still a territory and located in what is now
Rubicon township. Here he followed the blacksmith's trade which he had
learned in his youth and was also identified with the grain business. For some
time he conducted a saloon and eventually took up farming, dying upon his
property in Rubicon township, April 14, 1898. His wife passed away four
years later.
John B. Becker attended the district schools of Rubicon township and when
he laid aside his books learned the blacksmith's trade. When he was twenty-
four years of age he came to Juneau and conducted a blacksmith shop for one
year, following which he was elected under-sheriff and then deputy-sheriff,
serving in each capacity for two years. He is now the representative in Juneau
for the Young Brewing Company of Milwaukee and also furnishes the ice
used in the village. He is a stockholder in the Standard Cigar Company and a
director in the Hartford Exchange Bank. He is interested in important busi-
ness enterprises and has gained a position of prominence and importance in
Juneau.
On November 22, 1888, Mr. Becker was united in marriage to Miss Kath-
lena Hauser, who died July 29, 1904. On October 26, of the following year,
he wedded Miss Matilda Nies, of Milwaukee. He has three children: Eugene,
who is associated with his father in the conduct of his business; Mary, who
resides at home; and Alphonso, a student in St. Mary's Academy.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Mr. Becker gives his allegiance to the democratic party and for many
years has been prominent in local affairs. For six years he has been justice
of the peace, and is now serving in that capacity. In 1893 he served as sergeant-
at-arms for the Wisconsin state democratic convention and was for two years
under-sheriff of Dodge county and for a similar period of time deputy-sher-
iff. For twelve years he was a member of the city council and was in all the
aspects of his public life faithful to the trust reposed in him, progressive in
the standards which he advocated, and actuated in all the details of his public
service by the same conscientiousness and sense of responsibility which have
made him prosperous and successful in his business life.
JOHN FROEMMING.
John Froemming is living retired at No. 238 North avenue, Watertown,
having spent all his active life in America in general farming, until his retire-
ment in 1891. He was born in Germany, May 29, 1841, a son of David and
Mena (Pagel) Froemming, natives of the fatherland, who came to America in
1843. Landing in New York, they pushed westward to Milwaukee by rail and
then traveled with ox teams to Lebanon, where they spent the remainder of
their lives. Both are buried in the Lebanon cemetery.
John Froemming is the youngest in a family of eight children. He received
his education in the public schools of Lebanon and remained at home until he
was thirty years of age. At that time his father gave him one hundred and
sixty acres, to which he later added eighty acres, and this property he devel-
oped and improved for twelve years. Eventually, however, he sold the portion
which he had purchased and lived upon the original tract, which is located on
section 32, Lebanon township. Upon this he carried on general farming and
by following the most progressive and modern methods made his enterprise
one of the model farms of this section of the state. In 1891, however, he
retired from active life and moved to Watertown, where he bought a home
in the midst of three acres of land and here he has since resided.
On February 15, 1871, Mr. Froemming was united in marriage to Miss
Johanna Macheel, a daughter of John D. and Johanna (Radolp) Macheel,
natives of Germany, who came to America in early life and settled at May-
ville, where both passed away. Mrs. Froemming is the fourth in a family
of seven children and was born on her father's farm near Mayville, November
5, 1857. She and her husband are the parents of ten children: George, who is
a resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and who married Miss Julia Ohlson,
by whom he has one child; Emma, who is the wife of Edward Schoen, of Fort
Atkinson, by whom she has five children; Hulda, who married William Schil-
ling, of Denver, Colorado, by whom she has three children ; Lena, who is the
wife of William Marquart, of Watertown, Wisconsin, by whom she has one
child; Otto, who resides in Watertown; Edward, who resides in Lebanon and
who married SophialjCietz, by whom he has one child; Theodore, who makes
his home in Lebanon; Alma, who is the wife of Leonard Oestreich, of Water-
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HISTORY OK DODGE COUNTY
465
town; Francis and feert, both of whom reside at home. The family belong
to the German Lutheran church.
Mr. Froeihming always votes the democratic ticket but has never sought
public office. He has invested the comfortable fortune which he has acquired
in city property in Watertown dnd also owns his fine one hundred and sixty
acre farm. He is one of the well known and highly respected citizens of this
district and takes an intelligent interest in local affairs. His active career was
Useful and honorable 1 and his retirement lias been earned by industry and dili-
gence in the past.
FREDERICK A. KIENOW.
The energies of Frederick A. Kicnow have always been devoted to agricul-
tural pursuits in which he has met with a goodly measure of success, being
dwner of a valuable farm of a hundred and ninety-seven acres located on
section 8, Burnett tbwnship.' His entire life has been passed in the vicinity
where he now resides, his birth having occurred in this township on the ioth
of August, 1073. He is the eldest of the five children born of the marriage of
Carl and Augusta Kienow, who were born and reared in Germany. In early
life both came to America, their destination being Rolling Prairie, where they
located in 1871, and were married. There the father established a home and
engaged in farming until his death, which occurred on April 6, 1904. The
mother is stili living at the age of sixty-two years.
The youth- of Frederick A. Kienow was very similar to that of the average
lad who is bortl and reared iri a pioneer community. He was early made to
feel the duties and responsibilities of life by being assigned regular tasks about
the home place, having begun to assist his father about the work of the fields
and care of the stock while still in his boyhood. He always remained with
his parents, and after his marriage he and his father leased a place in Chester,
which they operated on a cooperative plan for six years. At the expiration of
that time, Mr. Kienow purchased his present property, and has ever since been
devoting himself to its further improvement with good results. A hundred
acres of his holding is under the plow, a large portion of it being planted to
barley. The latter he sells and he also markets large quantities of sugar beets
and potatoes, but such other cereals as he raises and his hay he uses in feeding.
He also engages in dairying and stock-raising, making a specialty of Percheron
horses and Chester Whites hogs, while his cattle, which are of a mixed breed
are now being bred to Holsteins. Mr. Kienow's pldce is well improved and kept
Up. Hfe has two barns, one, forty by sixty-five feet and the other thirty by
forty, which were bh the place when he bought it. The residence, however, he
remodeled in 1906 and during the period of his ownership he has made various
other changes, all of which have added to the general appearance and value of
the property. Eighty acres of his tract is detached and this he has fenced with
barbed wire, two acres of it being hog tight. His firm is provided with excellent
water, which is supplied from drilled wells.
Mr. Kienow was married in the fall of 1896 to Miss Eda Pegelow, a daugh-
466
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
tcr of William Pegelow of this county, and to them have been born the follow-
ing children: Carl, who died in infancy; and Reuben, Frederick, Flora and
Hattie.
The family attend the First Lutheran church of Beaver Dam, in which the
parents hold membership. Mr. Kienow takes an active interest in local politics,
giving his support to the democratic party. He has served with efficiency in
various township offices, having been assessor for three years, pathmaster for
four, and clerk of the school board for two. In the discharge of his official
duties he manifests the sound judgment/ prompt action and decisive, capable
methods, which characterize him in the development of his private interests.
HUGH T. ROBERTS.
Hugh T. Roberts has for more than thirty-five years been identified with
the agricultural interests of Calamus township, where he owns two hundred
acres of land, located on section 30. His birth occurred in Wales, in 1839.
His parents, Thomas and Katherine (Jones) Roberts, passed their entire lives
in the north of Wales, where they reared their family. In order of birth those
beside our subject are as follows: Sattrick, who was born, reared and married
in Wales, where he passed away in 1910; William, who died in the old country
in 1907 ; Robert, who is married and resides in Wales ; Owen, who has been
twice married, his first union being with a Miss Williams, while for his second
wife he chose Miss Ellen Jones, from the north of Wales, where they now
reside; Edward, who married Ann Roberts and is residing near Randolph, Wis-
consin; Thomas, who married Ellen Thomas and resides in Wales; Margaret,
who became the wife of Henry Williams, and passed away in Wales ; Catherine,
the wife of John Roberts, of Liverpool, England; Elizabeth, the wife of John
Jones, of Wales; and two who died in infancy. Edward and Hugh T. Roberts
are the only members of their family who have come to America, with the
exception of their brother Owen, who made them a visit in the summer of 1912.
The first twenty-six years in the life of Hugh T. Roberts were passed in
the land of his nativity. Being irresistibly drawn to America by the wonderful
tales he had heard regarding the opportunities here afforded enterprising young
men, in 1865 he took passage for the United States, with Wisconsin as his
destination. He first located at Columbus, this state, where he worked for
John Thomas for a time, but later entered the employ of Dr. Hughes. He sub-
sequently began farming for himself on a place formerly owned by R. D. Jones.
Thrifty habits and careful expenditures enabled him to acquire enough money
to become a property owner and he invested in some land in Calamus township.
He located on this place in 1875, but later removed to the place now owned by
his son. He has extensively improved both properties during the period of his
ownership, having in 1901 erected all of the buildings on the place where he
now lives. His fields have been brought into a high state of productivity, and
in connection with their cultivation he engages in raising graded cattle. He has
also dealt rather extensively in horses, raising the Norman, Clyde and Pcrchcron
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
467
breeds. His land has always been largely planted to grain, but of recent years
he has raised large quantities of peas for the canning factory.
Mr. Roberts was married in 1869 to Miss Margaret Jones, a resident of
Calamus township, and a daughter of Hugh Jones, of Wales. She came to
this country at the age of nineteen years with a brother, who located in Columbus,
Wisconsin. To Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have been born fourteen children, in
the following order: Katherine, who was born in 1870, is the wife of R. H.
Williams, of Fox Lake, Wisconsin. Margaret Ellen, who was born in 1872,
became the wife of William Davis, and passed away in Randolph, this state, in
1900. Mary, who was born in 1874, is the widow of D. W. Richards, who died
in January, 1912, at Calamus, Wisconsin, and was buried in Bethel cemetery, at
Elba, this state. Thomas, of Calamus, was born in 1875, a "d married Anna
Hughes of Oshkosh. Lizzie, who was born in 1877, died in 1893 and is buried
in Bethel cemetery. Hugh Elias, a resident of Calamus, was born in 1878 and
married Margaret Jane Evans. Edward, a resident of Whittier, California, was
born in 1880, and married Catherine Williams. Ann Jane, who was born in
1882, is the wife of Spencer Griffiths of Emporia, Kansas. William C, of
Columbus, Wisconsin, was born in 1884 and married Margaret A. Jones. Hannah,
who was born in 1886; John J., whose birth occurred in 1889; Henry, whose
natal year was 1893; and Elizabeth, who was born in 1896, are all living at
home. Richard, the youngest of the family, was born in 1900. Mr. and Mrs.
Roberts are also rearing their grandson, Hugh W. Davis, the son of their second
daughter, Margaret Ellen. He was born in 1900 and has made his home with
his grandparents ever since the death of his mother.
In matters of religious faith the family are Methodists and belong to the
Calvanistic church of that denomination. For many years Mr. Roberts applied
himself with unremitting energy to the development of his farm, but owing to
his advanced age he has largely withdrawn from active work but still directs
the operation of his homestead. He is one of the estimable citizens of Calamus
township where both he and his family are held in high regard.
WILLIAM PRITCHARD.
While formerly identified with mercantile interests in Randolph, William
Pritchard is now engaged in the real-estate business and is thoroughly informed
concerning property values' and the opportunity for judicious and profitable
investment. He was born in the town of Manchester, Green Lake county,
Wisconsin, on the 14th of January, 1871. His father, Henry Pritchard, a native
of Wales, was brought to America by his parents when eight years of age.
The family home was established in the town of Manchester, Green Lake
county, upon a farm and there Henry Pritchard was reared. Having arrived
at mature years he married Sarah Roberts, a native of Washington county.
They began their domestic life in the town of Manchester but afterward
removed to a farm in Columbia county, Wisconsin, where Mr. Pritchard car-
ried on general agricultural pursuits until his life's labors were ended in death
in April, 1892. His remains were brought back to Manchester for interment.
468
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
His widow now lives in Randolph. They were the parents of two children,
the daughter being Mary Ann, who was born October i, 1869, and is the wift
of the Rev. J. R. Johns, now of Columbus, Ohio, who for fourteen years was
pastor of the Welsh church in Randolph.
No event of especial importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life
for William Pritchard in his boyhood and youth. He worked in the fields
through the summer months and when school was in session attended the dis-
trict school of the neighborhood. Moving to Randolph in October, 1892, he
engaged in the hardware business.
On the 15th of July, 1899, he wedded Ellen Owen, a daughter of VV. E.
and Ann Jane Owen, of Randolph, Wisconsin, where Mrs. Pritchard was born
in June, 1881. Her father is a prominent builder and contractor and has been
chorister of the choir of the Welsh church at Randolph for over thirty-five
years.
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard took up their abode in Ran-
dolph, where he continued in the hardware business until 1901, when he dis-
posed of his interests in that line of trade and opened a real-estate office. This
he has since conducted and has handled many property transfers. He is thor-
oughly conversant with the real estate upon the market and its valuation and
is thus competent to aid a prospective seller or purchaser. He belongs to the
Welsh Calvinistic Methodist church and to the Masonic fraternity — associa-
tions which indicate much of the nature of his interests and the high principles
which govern his conduct.
Van Wyck Anthony, whose home in Hustisford, known as Willow Batik,
is one of the most picturesque in the county, if not in the state, is now spend-
ing the evening of life in honorable retirement and in the enjoyment of the
fruits of his former toil. His birth occurred at Fishkill, New York, on the 24th
of April, 1839, his parents being Nicholas and Maria (Knapp) Anthony. The
father was born at Fishkill in 1794, while the mother's birth occurred at Phillips-
town in the year 1800. Nicholas Anthony followed farming throughout his
entire business career and always remained in the east. He did valiant service as
a soldier in the War of 1812. He died in December, 1863, having for but one
month survived his wife, who passed away in November of that year. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Anthony were born seven children, as follows: John,
whose demise occurred in 1868; David, who passed away at the age of twenty-
one years; Elizabeth, who is the widow of Henry H. Hustis, an attorney of
Fishkill on the Hudson, New York, where she still makes her home; William,
an editor residing at Fishkill on the Hudson; Edward, who is deceased; Van
Wyck, of this review; and Nicholas, who is a retired resident of Fishkill on the
Hudson.
Van Wyck Anthony obtained his early education in the schools of Fishkill,
New York, and completed his studies by graduation at Claverack, that state.
He remained under the parental roof until twenty-three years of age and then
VAN WYCK ANTHONY
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
469
embarked in the coal business at Fishkill, conducting an enterprise of that
character for about five years. On the expiration of that period he returned
to the homestead farm, remaining thereon until 1885, when he came to Wiscon-
sin. After a short time spent in Milwaukee, he located in Hustisford and has
here resided continuously since. He has retired from active business and is
spending the evening of life in well earned ease.
On the 21st of July, 1885, Mr. Anthony was united in marriage to Miss
Florence L. Hustis, who was born in Milwaukee, on the 10th of May, 1846, her
parents being John and Laura Ann (Ludington) Hustis. Mr. Anthony is a
republican in politics but his aspirations have not been in the line of office hold-
ing. During the period of the Civil war he joined the Union League. His
residence stands on the point of land which was formerly known as Wausharika,
or the City of the Foxes. He has lived in Dodge county for more than a quar-
ter of a century and enjoys the friendship and regard of all who know him.
HON. PAUL O. HUSTING.
Hon Paul O. Husting, lawyer and law-maker, has twice represented his
district in the state senate and in the work of the courts has been prominent
since an early period in his professional career. While advancement at the
bar is proverbially slow he rapidly worked his way upward, finding correct
solution for the many intricate legal problems and presenting his causes in the
courts with clearness and force. He was born in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin,
April 25, 1866, and is a son of John P. Husting, who was a native of Luxem-
burg, Germany, whence he came to the new world in 1856, making Fond du
Lac his destination. He is a watchmaker and jeweler by trade and has followed
that business in Fond du Lac from 1857 until 1876, when he came to Mayville,
where he again engaged in the same business. He has since been numbered
among the representative merchants of the town and is still active in commercial
circles, although in the seventy- fourth year of his age. He wedded Mary Juneau,
a daughter of Solomon Juneau, who was born near Montreal, Canada, and mar-
ried Josette Viau. Solomon Juneau became one of the early residents of Dodge
county and was the founder of Theresa, which was named after his oldest
daughter, while Juneau, the county seat, was named in honor of Paul Juneau,
an uncle of Mr. Husting. It was about 1852 or 1853 that Solomon Juneau
took up his abode at Theresa. He was a trader and was connected with various
business enterprises in Milwaukee. During the early period of his residence
at Milwaukee he was agent for John Jacob Astor. In the family of John P. and
Mary (Juneau) Husting there are eight children: Otto C, who is married and is
engaged in the insurance business at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin ; Paul O. ; Max
R., who is engaged in the newspaper business in Fargo, North Dakota, and is
married and has one child; Isabella J., the wife of Judge C. W. Lamoreaux,
county judge of Dodge county, by whom she has two children ; Leo F., agent
for the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad at Kaukama, Wisconsin, who is
married and has Ave children; Bonduel A., district attorney at Fond du Lac,
who is married and has two children ; Gustav B., who is an attorney of Mayville
and is married and has two children; and Berthold J., of Fond du Lac, who
is married and has two children.
»°L H-2T
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Paul O. Husting was a pupil in the German and English Academy of Fond
du Lac to his tenth year and of the public schools between the ages of ten
and sixteen years and later resumed his studies as a student in the Wisconsin
University. He started out in the business world as clerk in a general store
in Mayville and was thus employed for five years. He was also at one time assist-
ant postmaster of the town and later was connected with the railway mail service,
running between Minneapolis and Chicago. In January, 1895, he took up the
study of law and spent one year in law school at Madison. In December, 1895, ne
passed the state bar examination and then returned to Mayville, where he entered
into partnership with C. W. Lamoreaux, in 1897, with whom he remained until
the latter was elected county judge in April, 191 1. The firm was then dissolved
and Mr. Husting was joined by his brother under the firm style of Husting
& Brother. He is an able and distinguished lawyer who has been a close
student of his profession and has comprehensive knowledge of the principles
of jurisprudence. He has ever prepared his cases with great thoroughness
and care, and clearness and perspicuity mark their presentation. For two
terms of two years each he has served as district attorney of Dodge county and
in 1906 he was elected to the state senate where he made a record so credita-
ble that he was reelected and is now serving his second term. He is a believer
in democratic principles and as a member of that party was elected to the
upper house of the general assembly. He keeps well informed upon those
questions which are to the statesman and the man of affairs of greatest import
and his indorsement of any vital measure is based upon no superficial under-
standing of the question, but rests upon a deep investigation of all that it
involves. The same analytical element is strongly manifest in his professional
career and he is making continuous advancement in the calling where success
depends entirely upon individual effort, merit and ability.
JAMES EDWARD BARSTOW.
James Edward Barstow is the owner of a valuable farm in Dodge county,
comprising an excellent tract of cultivated land situated on section 18, West-
ford township. He was born in Courtland, Columbia county, Wisconsin, Sep-
tember 24, 1866. His father, George Barstow, is a native of Yorkshire, Eng-
land, born in Bradford, February 6, 1828. He came to America in 1849,
landing in Boston, Massachusetts, July 8 of that year, after a five weeks'
ocean voyage. From Boston he went to Lowell where he earned his first dol-
lar on the present site of the Hood's Sarsaparilla factory. Here he remained
for one year until he had earned enough money to pay his expenses to New
York, where he remained for several months, and then came to Wisconsin,
settling in Westford. Afterward he purchased a farm in Courtland township,
Columbia county, which he improved and operated for a number of years.
On September 4, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, First Wisconsin Heavy
Artillery, and served under General Thomas in the Army of the Cumberland.
He was mustered out with honorable discharge June 16, 1865, at Knoxvillc,
Tennessee, and was paid off at Louisville, Kentucky. He returned immcdi-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
471
ately to his Wisconsin farm and operated it successfully until his retirement.
After this for some time he lived in the Soldiers' Home at Dayton, Ohio, but
eventually left that institution and returning to Wisconsin made his home with
his sons in Westford where he now resides.
George Barstow, Sr., was twice married. On September 4, 1865, he wedded
Miss Harriett Stair, a daughter of Vine Stair of Otsego, Columbia county,
and after their marriage they settled on a farm six miles south of Randolph,
Wisconsin. In 1868 the father of our subject sold this property and moved
to Iowa, where he purchased land near Fayette; and there he resided for ten
years. Upon this property his wife met with an accident which caused her
death. While driving a reaper she fell in front of the sickle which passed
over her, cutting off one arm and one leg. She died two hours afterward and
is buried in Iowa. Four children were born to this marriage, those beside
our subject being: George Jr., whose birth occurred May 21, 1868, and who
resides in Hampden township, Columbia county; Albert, who was born July
21, 1870, and who married Miss Grace Phillips, a daughter of Joseph Phil-
lips, of Courtland township; and Edward, born in 1873, who died in infancy
and is buried in Iowa.
George Barstow's second wife was Mrs. Nancy Hewitt, of Kansas, and after
their marriage they lived upon a farm in that state until the title to the land
was proved up. They then sold the property on account of the grasshoppers
and droughts and moved back to Wisconsin where Mr. Barstow has since
resided. His second wife passed away December 28, 1887, after more than a
year's illness of paralysis. She is buried at Shopiere, Wisconsin. The United
States government is in her debt to the amount of ten thousand dollars, money
due her in compensation for depredations committed by the Indians who made
three raids upon their farm — in 1867, 1868, and 1869. In one of these skir-
mishes they shot her first husband, drove off all the stock, crippled her oldest
son and left her for dead. However, she revived and made her escape.
John Barstow is truly a self-made man, for he has been dependent upon
his own resources since he was thirteen years of age. At that time he left
home and worked his way to Iowa, by laboring in the broom cornfields in
Kansas and at any occuaption which would bring him an income. After he
reached Iowa he worked for five years as a monthly laborer and then came
to Wisconsin where he spent one winter. He engaged in various occupations
during this time and also went to school, his educational advantages having
been extremely limited. When he returned to Iowa he remained for two years
and farmed in association with a partner upon rented land. After some time
he went to Nebraska and there worked on the railroad for several weeks,
returning to Iowa overland, driving a team. Air. Barstow crossed Iowa four
or five different times and his journeys were always through different parts of
the state. Eventually, however, he settled in Wisconsin, buying land in Colum-
bia county which he operated and improved for twenty years. In 1910 he
crossed the dividing line into Dodge county and moved upon his present farm
upon which he has since resided. He owns ninety-three acres in Dodge county
and one hundred and twelve acres in Columbia county, seventy-two of which
are tillable. His soil is rich and the land productive, owing to the care and
labor which he bestows upon his farm and his property is in excellent condi-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
tion, making him one of the representative and substantial agriculturists of
this part of the state.
Mr. Barstow has been twice married. On September 24, 1890, he wedded
Miss Mary Bancroft, a daughter of John D. Bancroft, of Courtland township,
Columbia county. They became the parents of two children: Harvey E., who
was born on the 24th of October, 1893, and who lives at home; and Earl E.,
who was born October 26, 1897, also at home. Mr. Barstow's first wife died
June 24, 1905, and is buried in Courtland cemetery. On February 21, 1907,
he married Miss Emma Radle, a daughter of Martin Radle, of Manchester,
Wisconsin, and they became the parents of two children: Ervin J. and Eva
May, twins, born April 25, 1909. The family are members of the Methodist
Episcopal church. Mr. Barstow is prominent in the affairs of the Masonic
order. His life record illustrates the power of honesty and diligence in insur-
ing success. His labors have always been actively, constructively and intelli-
gently carried forward and have resulted in placing him in the front ranks of
progressive farmers.
JOSEPH EDWARD FISCHER.
Joseph Edward Fischer, a representative and substantial citizen of Beaver
Dam, has for the past sixteen years acted as superintendent of the Beaver Dam
Malleable Iron Works. His birth occurred in Berlin, Green Lake county, Wis-
consin, on the 24th of July, 1859, his parents being Louis and Wilhelmina
(Schenk) Fischer, both of whom were natives of Germany. In that country
the father did military duty and in 1846 crossed the Atlantic to the United
States. He was married in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and worked at the trades
of blacksmithing and wagon making. At the time of his demise he was a
resident of Princeton, this state. His religious faith was that of the Lutheran
church. To him and his wife were born the following children: Mary, Emma,
Louis, Julia, Joseph E., Rose and George.
Joseph Edward Fischer obtained his education in the public schools of
Princeton and Milwaukee and put aside his text-books at the age of fourteen
years to learn the baker's trade. Abandoning that occupation, however, he
entered the brass foundry of Hoffman & Bridges and subsequently secured
employment with the Milwaukee Malleable Iron Works, remaining with that
concern for four years. On the expiration of that period he became superin-
tendent of the plant of the Northwestern Malleable Iron Works, acting in that
capacity for thirteen years. During the next four years he was employed as
superintendent by the Belle City Iron Works of Racine, Wisconsin. In 1896
he entered upon his present connection as superintendent of the Beaver Dam
Malleable Iron Works and has since discharged the duties of that responsible
position in an efficient and highly acceptable manner. The enterprise has grown
rapidly during his connection therewith.
On the 12th of September, 1880, in Milwaukee, Mr. Fischer was united in
marriage to Miss Wilhelmina Schultz, a daughter of Carl Schultz of that city.
Our subject and his wife have nine children, namely: Clara, Arthur, Ella. Ilil-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
478
ton, Frieda, Minnie, Gertrude, Joseph and Lloyd. Mr. Fischer is a prominent
representative of the local organizations of the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows, being past grand of the lodge and past chief patriarch of the encampment
He likewise belongs to the grand lodge and grand encampment. For two years
he has served on the board of public works while a member of the city council.
His life, lived in accordance with high principles and spent in useful endeavor,
has been of valuable service to the community and proves him deserving of the
respect he enjoys.
FRED CHRISTIAN.
Fred Christian is active in the agricultural implement business which he
founded in Mayville in 1898 and has been steadily successful because he has
made his methods of operation practical and effective and adhered to his policy
of honest and straightforward dealing. He was born in Theresa, on Febru-
ary 27, 1865, and is a son of Fred and Fredricka Christian, natives of Ger-
many. They came to Theresa in 1843 an d settled on a farm of one hundred
and sixty acres, upon which the mother died in 1886, when she was sixty years
of age, and the father in 1888, at the age of sixty-five.
Fred Christian was one of a family of ten children, his three brothers, Her-
man, Charles and Ferdinand, all are residing in Theresa. He went to school
in his native section and remained upon his father's farm until 1897. In that
year he came to Mayville and in 1898 established himself in the business with
which he is at the present time identified. He carries a general line of agricul-
tural implements and always strives to keep his stock modern and complete.
His constantly growing patronage is an evidence of his success which is impor-
tant enough to give him a place among the leading business men of the city.
On December 3, 1888, Mr. Christian was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Budha, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Budha of Theresa. Mrs. Chris-
tian was born in that city on March 30, 1870. She died in Mayville, on the
28th of March, 1910, at the age of thirty-nine, leaving two daughters, the
elder of whom, Alma, was born September 29, 1889, and the younger, on the
9th of March, 1901.
Mr. Christian is a plain and practical man who has labored persistently for
the success 1 which he enjoys and has made a record during his many years as a
merchant for integrity which is beyond question and upright methods which
require no disguise.
LOUIS KOHLHOFF.
Louis Kohlhoff, who is farming one hundred and thirty-two acres of fine
land on section 23, Clyman township, is a native son of Wisconsin, born in
Watertown, January 26, 1869. His father, John Kohlhoff, came from northern
Germany to Wisconsin, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits for a num-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
ber of years. He died in Watertown, at the age of sixty-four. The mother
of our subject, who was in her maidenhood Miss Johanna Zastrow, was born
in Germany and now resides in Watertown, having reached the age of sixty-two.
Louis Kohlhoff was educated in the public schools of his native city and as
a boy helped his father with the work of the farm. After laying aside his
books he spent one year in a cheese factory but when he was twenty-nine years
of age began his independent career. At that time he purchased the farm of
one hundred and thirty-two acres upon which he resides, and has since given
his entire attention to its improvement. Throughout the years he has steadily
carried forward the work of development, has built a fine new barn and a silo,
remodeled the house and repaired the old buildings and moved some of the
smaller ones. He does general farming and is also extensively interested in
dairying, having made both branches of his work profitable.
In 1899 Mr. Kohlhoff married Miss Ida Irven, who was born in Watertown,
November 8, 1877. She is a daughter of Carl and Alvina (Utach) Irven, the
former a native of Germany, born May 4, 1850, and the latter of Lebanon
township, where her birth occurred December 18, 185 1 . Mr. and Mrs. Kohl-
hoff have six children : Arnold, born July 26, 1900, who is attending school ;
Esther, whose birth occurred November 2, 1902; Walter, born June 18, 1904;
Irma, born August 8, 1905; Edwin, November 8, 1908; and Leona, Decem-
ber 12, 191 1. The family are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Kohlhoff
is not identified with any political party, preferring to vote according to his
personal convictions. He does not take an active part in the public life of his
section, preferring to devote most of his time to the management of his farm.
His methods have always been modern and practical and his standards of
integrity high, and he has, therefore, won in the course of years a degree of
success which places him in the front ranks of progressive agriculturists in
this part of the county
ROBERT E. BLOEDEL.
Robert E. Bloedel is one of the highly respected citizens of Waupun, of
which he has been a resident since 1903, and has filled the position of deputy
warden of the State Penitentiary at Waupun since 1911. He was born in
Germantown, near Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1875 and is a son of Philip and
Mary (Fahl) Bloedel, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father
is by trade and occupation a blacksmith and now resides at Markesan, Green
Lake county, Wisconsin.
Robert E. Bloedel was reared at home and received his early education in
the public schools of Green Lake county. After completing his elementary
course of study he learned the blacksmith's trade and in 1903 settled in Wau-
pun, where he opened a blacksmith shop and engaged in the blacksmithing
business, to which he continued to devote his attention until 191 1, when he
was appointed by the warden of the State Penitentiary at Waupun, the Rev.
Daniel Woodward, as deputy warden, which position he has since filled.
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
475
On July 4, 1898, Mr. Blocdcl was united in marriage to Miss Woodward,
a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Woodward, of whom extended mention is
made in the sketch of Rev. Daniel Woodward, published in another part of
this work. Mr. and Mrs: Bloedel are the parents of two children, Marion L.
and Amy May.
Mr. Bloedel is a member of the Woodmen Camp and is a popular and highly
respected citizen of Waupun. He is a man of powerful physique, weighing
two hundred and fifty-five pounds, large of bone and strong of muscle, but
he is kind of heart and most of all just in all matters pertaining to his position.
He is in every way making a creditable record for himself in the responsible
and trying position, he holds.
JOHN H. McCAIG.
The name of McCaig needs no introduction to the readers of this history,
for it has been prominent upon the records of the agricultural development
of Dodge county since pioneer times. The active representative of the family
is John H. McCaig, who is in charge of the Indian Garden Creamery in Shields
township and one of the best known and most successful business men in this
part of the state. He was born in the section in which he now resides, Janu-
ary 21, 1870, and is a son of James McCaig, a native of Ireland and one of the
earliest pioneers in the settlement of Wisconsin. He came to America when
he was still a child, making the journey across the Atlantic with his father,
Archie McCaig, who settled in Shields township, Dodge county, in early times.
He bought a tract of land, which was covered with a dense growth of timber,
and with resolute energy he cleared it of trees and grubbed up the stumps.
With the lumber cut down he built a crude log cabin, in which, like hundreds
of other Wisconsin pioneers, he lived while the arduous work of development
was begun. Gradually, however, he opened up the farm and put it in a high
state of cultivation. Upon this property James McCaig, the father of the sub-
ject of this review, grew to manhood. Even as a child he was obliged to help
in the clearing of the timber, brush and stumps and in the various other duties
connected with farming in pioneer times. After he had attained his majority
he went west to the Pacific coast and lived in California, Oregon and other
sections of the west for eleven years, engaging principally in mining. At the
end of that time he returned to Wisconsin and settled on the family homestead
in Dodge county. He married, in Shields township, Miss Margaret McPhilip,
who was born and reared in this section. His widow survives him and resides,
with other members of her family, upon the homestead.
John H. McCaig is the eldest of a family of ten children, all of whom
grew to maturity. He was reared upon his father's farm and his education
was acquired in the public schools of Shields township. After laying aside
his books he served an apprenticeship of one year in the cheese-making busi-
ness and then started upon his independent business career, taking charge of
a large cheese factory. This line of work he has followed since that time and
for the past thirteen years has been manager of the Indian Garden cheese fac-
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
tory, one of the largest and most important concerns of its kind in this sec-
tion. Some idea of the extent of Mr. McCaig's activities may be gained from
the fact that the factory under his charge uses about two million pounds of
milk every year.
Mr. McCaig married, in Shields township, January 8, 1896, Miss Mar-
garet Dowd, a native of Dodge county and a daughter of James Dowd, one
of the pioneer farmers of this section. Mr. and Mrs. McCaig have seven
children, Frances, Marie, Josephine, Eugene, Edmond, Isabell and Cincila.
In his political views Mr. McCaig is a stanch democrat and has adhered to
the principles and policies of that party since casting his first vote. He has
always been actively and intelligently interested in public affairs and has taken
a prominent part in the work of public-school expansion. In this connection
he served as clerk of the board for a number of years and did able and useful
work in that capacity. In 1912 he was elected town clerk of Shields and is
discharging his duties conscientiously and always with a view to the general
welfare. A native of Dodge county, Mr. McCaig has spent his entire life in
this section and has been identified with one of its principal business interests.
During the years he has proved his possession of many sterling qualities, for in
both the public and private relations of his life he has been upright, straight-
forward and honorable.
William Caughlin is manager at Clyman for the Watertown Grain Company
and his salient business qualities well fit him for the responsibilities that devolve
upon him in this connection. He was born November 18, 1885, in Clyman town-
ship, near the village in which he still makes his home, a son of James and
Catharine (Reinehr) Caughlin. The father's birth occurred in Holyoke, Massa-
chusetts, August 16, 1848, and the mother was born in Watertown, Wisconsin,
May 16, 1864. James Caughlin has always been a farmer and much of his life
has been spent in this state. He came with his parents to Clyman township
when a lad of about five years, was reared in this district and when a young man
purchased land and began farming on his own account. He now occupies an
attractive home on a fine farm adjoining the corporation limits of the village,
having one hundred and sixty acres of productive land and also owning another
farm about two miles distant. He is still busily engaged in the cultivation of
his fields, and in addition breeds Durham cattle, both branches of his business
proving profitable.
William Caughlin is the eldest in a family of thirteen children. His youth
was devoted to obtaining an education in district school No. 5 of Clyman town-
ship and to the work of the home farm. He assisted his father in tilling the
fields and caring for the crops up to the time of his marriage, after which he
was employed by the railroad company for a short period, acting as assistant
foreman in the yards at Clyman Junction. He then accepted his present position
as manager for the Watertown Grain Company, in which connection he has
charge of the elevator, buys grain and does other business for the firm in this
WILLIAM CAUGHLIN.
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
477
place. His operations are quite extensive and he well merits the confidence of
the company which he represents.
On the ioth of May, 1910, Mr. Caughlin was married to Miss Margaret
Metzger, who was born in Clyman township, May 25, 1887, a daughter of Joseph
and Margaret (Engelhart ) Metzger, the former born in Clyman township in 1850
and the latter a native of Watertown, Wisconsin. Mrs. Metzger died when her
daughter, Mrs. Caughlin, was a little maiden of about fourteen years. The
father has always followed farming and has spent his entire life in Dodge county.
He still owns a farm of one hundred and thirty acres, which is operated by his
son, while he makes his home in the village, having retired from active business
cares. Mr. and Mrs. Caughlin also occupy an attractive residence in Clyman,
near his place of business. He holds membership in the Roman Catholic church
and he gives his political allegiance to the democratic party, but political honors
and offices have no attraction for him, as he has always preferred to concentrate
his energies upon business affairs, knowing that the road to success is the path
of industry and perseverance.
EDMUND MARDEN.
Since 1869 Edmund Mardeh has lived upon his present farm of sixty acres
of productive land on section 20, Westford township, and by hard work and
intelligently directed activity has made it one of the excellent properties of the
neighborhood, its improved condition being entirely the result of his energy
and enterprise. He has lived in Wisconsin since he was ten years of age but
was born in England on the 9th of May, 1844, a son of George and Mary (Ready)
Marden, natives of that country. The father was born in 1822 and came to
America when he was thirty years of age, settling in Cayuga county, New
York, in 1852. Here he remained for two years, coming at the end of that
time to the vicinity of Fox Lake, where for three years he carried on general
farming. At the end of that time he moved to property just across the highway
from the farm now operated by our subject and improved this tract for a
number of years, eventually selling it and making his home with his son. He
died in 1900 and is buried in Westford cemetery. The mother of our subject
was born in England and died in Wisconsin in 1884. She is also buried in
Westford cemetery. In their family were eight children. James served his
country as a soldier in the Civil war, enlisting at Lincoln's first call for volun-
teers as a member of the Second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and was killed
at the battle of Gettysburg in 1863. Ezekiel married Emily Ann Shong and
they resided in Westford. Her death occurred one year later and she is buried
in Fox Lake cemetery. The second wife of Ezekiel Marden was Miss Carrie
Dau and they make their home in Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Edmund, the
third in order of birth, is the subject of this review. Peter married Hattie Ashley
and they now reside in Randolph, Wisconsin. George died in infancy. Re-
becca married David Evans, of Westford, where his death occurred. She is
now residing in Randolph, Wisconsin. Mary was born in New York, and is
now deceased. Jane completes the family. She married James Johns and her
death occurred in Westford.
478
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Edmund Marden was educated in the district schools of Dodge county and
has followed agricultural pursuits all during his active career. He married in
1869 and immediately afterward settled upon his present property, which he has
brought to a highly improved and excellent condition by intelligent planting and
cultivating and by erecting the necessary barns and outbuildings. The entire
tract is under cultivation and upon it Mr. Marden carries on general farming
and stock-raising and also operates a threshing machine.
In 1869 Mr. Marden was united in marriage to Miss Annie Bradford, a
daughter of George Bradford, of Westford, and to their union were born three
children. Frederick, born September 5, 1871, left for the west on May 30,
1910, and has not since been heard from. George was born November 13, 1877,
and passed away in 1891, his remains being interred in Westford cemetery.
Edward, the youngest member of the family, was born July 13, 1884. He
married Laura Lewis, a daughter of John Lewis, of Westford, and they reside
with the subject of this review.
Mr. Marden is one of the substantial and enterprising farmers of his section
and in his successful labors is representative of the most modern agricultural
methods and standards.
SAMUEL A DROWN.
Samuel A. Drown is a native of Minnesota but has been a resident of
Dodge county practically all his life. He is numbered among the enterprising,
substantial and progressive farmers of Beaver Dam township, where he operates
a fine tract of sixty acres on section 1, bringing to his agricultural pursuits
an energy, industry and determination which have made him rapidly successful.
He was born June 19, 1866, and is a son of Amasa and Helen (Day) Drown,
the former a native of New Hampshire and the latter of New York. The father
came to Dodge county when he was only seven years of age, settling here with
his parents about the year 1845. The latter were among the early pioneers here,
the father's death occurring on November 23, 191 1, when he was seventy-three
years of age, while his wife survived him by four years, being seventy-five years
old when she died. Both are buried in Oakwood cemetery. Amasa Drown
was for many years active in county political affairs. He was chairman of the
town board and was otherwise prominent in local democratic circles.
Samuel A. Drown is the second in a family of three children. He remained
at home until he was twenty years of age and then went to the city of Beaver
Dam, where he clerked in a store for some time. He later conducted a fruit
and confectionery establishment for three years, gaining distinct and substantial
prosperity by hard work and honorable methods. Eventually, however, he
returned to the homestead and has since made this his home. He carries on gen-
eral farming and stock-raising and operates a sanitary dairy, selling the products
of this branch of his enterprise to a neighboring cheese factory. He milks ten
cows daily and raises high-grade Holstein cattle, feeding his stock with the hay
and all the grain which he raises with the exception of his barley, which he sells
in the Wisconsin markets. He is operating the land formerly owned by his
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
479
father and grandfather and all the improvements were put upon it in the early
*days. It is all under cultivation with the exception of fifteen acres. Mr. Drown
is well known in the section in which he resides and prominent in various lines
of activity. He served for three years in Company K, Wisconsin National
Guards, and is deeply interested in local growth and improvement. He is a
stockholder in a cheese and butter company which is operating near his home
farm and is treasurer of that organization. He is independent in his political
beliefs, voting according to his personal convictions.
In 1894 Mr. Drown was united in marriage to Miss Cora B. Grant, a daughter
of Albert N. and Mary E. (Smith) Grant, the former a native of Dodge county
and the latter, of New York state. The parents are both of New England
ancestry. They were married in this section and settled in Beaver Dam, where
the father has been active in business circles for many years. He is now living
in that city in the sixty-sixth year of his age. His wife also survives and is
sixty-three years old. Mr. Grant is well known in Dodge county, where he has
spent his entire life. He enlisted for service in the Civil war in a Wisconsin
Regiment and served during the entire period, never having been wounded or
taken prisoner. Mr. and Mrs. Drown became the parents of seven children,
of whom Fred Clark, the sixth in order of birth, passed away at the age of
eight months. Those living, are Samuel Elmore, Helen Esther, Emerson Newell,
Ethel Marie, Hazel Irene and Warren Ellery.
In his political views Mr. Drown is independent of lines and parties, voting
according to his personal convictions. He takes an intelligent interest in the
affairs of his community but has never sought public office. He is one of the
sterling and substantial citizens of Dodge county and has met with success in
a field of labor which has repaid his practical methods and his unflagging indus-
try by constantly increasing prosperity. His farm is a credit to his progressive
agricultural standards and to his business judgment and is a valuable addition
to the resources of his section.
RICHARD C. HUGHES
Richard C. Hughes is a native of Wisconsin and is a son of a pioneer in the
settlement of Calamus township, where he is successful as a general agriculturist,
cultivating the farm which his father acquired in early times as a preemption
claim. He is thoroughly progressive and up-to-date in his methods and is num-
bered among the representative citizens of the section in which he was born.
His natal day was October 1, 1863, and he is a son of Richard A. and Eleanor
(Jones) Hughes. His father was born in North Wales, July 31, 1817, and came
to America in 1842, being seven weeks upon the ocean. He settled first in
Remsen, New York, where he worked at his trade of blacksmithing until 1849.
During' the first month of his residence in America his income was five dollars
but he was later more successful. In 1849 he came west, locating on a farm on
section 17, Calamus township, in the early days of the settlement of that district
He purchased a government preemption claim and began the cultivation of his
property. He improved the place with modern buildings, installed labor-saving
480
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
machinery and brought his land to a highly developed state. On February 8,
1843, ne married Miss Eleanor Jones, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Jones'
of Remsen, New York, and to their union were born ten children, three of
whom died in infancy. The others are : William J., .who is married and lives
in Houston, Minnesota; John, who was for ten years clerk of Calamus town-
ship and who died in Columbus, in 1899; Hannah, who makes her home in
Columbus; Thomas, who is married and lives at Mankato, Minnesota; Mary
Ellen, who passed away in Chicago, in 1881 ; Jennie who married W. C. Ten-
Eyck, of Chicago, in which city she died in 1882; and Richard C, the subject
of this review. The father of our subject was one of the early settlers in
Dodge county and was well known in the section in which he resided. When
he left Remsen, New York, he made the trip by the Erie canal to Buffalo
and then by steamboat to Milwaukee, where he lived for one year before
he finally settled upon the farm which his son now operates. He was a
type of the sturdy and upright farmer of pioneer times and was in all things
a worthy and representative citizen.
Richard C. Hughes spent his childhood upon his father's farm in Calamus
township and was educated in the district schools. When he grew to manhood
he lived for fifteen years in the township of Fountain Prairie, in Columbia
county, and in 1909 moved, to the old homestead where he has since resided. He
is carrying on general agriculture upon this property and is making his fields
productive through practical and systematic methods. He has gained success
by reason of his industry, well directed activity and experienced knowledge and
is ranked among the prosperous and substantial farmers in the section in which
he resides.
Mr. Hughes has been twice married. On December 19, 1895, he wedded
Miss Hattie Jones, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jones, and to their
union was born one son, James H. Mrs. Hughes passed away on November 4,
1898, in the thirty-eighth year of her age and on the 18th of April, 1900, our
subject married a sister of his first wife, Miss Jennie Jones.
Mr. Hughes takes an intelligent interest in the progress and growth of his
native section although he never seeks public office. He belongs to the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias and is active in the
affairs of the Equitable Fraternal Union. He is thoroughly up-to-date and pro-
gressive as a farmer and is justly numbered among the important men of the
section. His life has been quietly passed and stands for honesty, integrity and
high principles.
ALVIN A. BUTTERBRODT.
A native son of Dodge county and one of the representative and promising
young agriculturists, stock-raisers and dairymen of this section is Alvin A.
Butterbrodt, who is operating and improving one hundred and eighty-one and
one-half acres on sections 17 and 20, Burnett township, where he makes his
farming productive and remunerative by adhering to the standard of practical
labor. He was born February 7, 1885, and is a son of Ernest and Ida (Zulkc)
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
481
Butterbrodt, natives of Germany, who came to America at an early date and were
married in Wisconsin. They now live in Trenton township.
Alvin A. Butterbrodt was the second in a family of nine children born to
his parents. He was educated in the district schools and aided his father in
the minor duties of the farm. When he had attained his majority he worked
upon neighboring properties for wages for two and one-half years, accumulating
during that time six hundred and fifty dollars, with which he engaged in farm-
ing for himself, purchasing land in Trenton township. Here he carried on
general farming and by industrious methods and hard work succeeded in acquir-
ing a sum of money which enabled him in 191 1 to begin operations on a larger
scale. He rented an extensive property and having sold all his cattle, invested
the proceeds in high-grade Shorthorns and at the present time has several pure-
breed Holsteins. He does general farming and stock-raising and specializes
in dairying, selling his milk to a neighboring cheese factory. He raises hay and
grain for feed for his cattle and breeds also Percheron horses and Poland China
hogs. He is known as an expert in this branch of activity and his judgment
is held to be weighty and influential.
In the fall of 191 1, Mr. Butterbrodt was united in marriage to Miss Bertha
Rau, a daughter of Herman Rau, of Green Lake township. Mrs. Butterbrodt
was born March 23, 1894, and is the third in a family of five children. In his
political beliefs Mr. Butterbrodt is a democrat but has never been an office
seeker. He and his wife attend the Lutheran church at Beaver Dam.
WILLIAM GANSKE.
William Ganske is one of the estimable citizens and capable agriculturists of
Beaver Dam township, where he owns a hundred and forty acres of land located
on sections 21 and 22. He has always been a resident of Dodge county, where
his birth occurred on the 14th of April, 1867. He is of German extraction, as
the name would suggest, his father, August Ganske, having been born in Lud-
wigsdorf, Germany, on the 9th of September, 1833. At the tender age of three
years, he was left an orphan and thereafter made his home with an uncle,
Stephen Ganske, until the latter's death. He was thereafter dependent upon
his own efforts and being without home ties, he in 1855, joined some friends, who
were coming to America and took passage at Hamburg for New York city.
Upon reaching Watertown, this state, he parted from his friends who continued
their journey to Minnesota, while he went to the town of Clyman. There he
worked on the railroad and also for the farmers in that section, following
any occupation which enabled him to earn an honest living. Later he began
farming for himself as a renter and in 1858 bought eighty acres of wild land,
which he cultivated with the diligence and enterprise of the man, who is deter-
mined to succeed. Later he increased his holding by the addition of another
forty acre tract adjoining, and here for many years he pursued his agricultural
career, making his one of the finest farms in the section. In August, 1862, he
went to the front as a member of Company H, Wisconsin Volunteers. The
exposure and hardships of the march and camp life made him an easy victim
482
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
of malaria and after many weeks spent in the hospital he was honorably dis-
charged, returning to Trenton in the spring of 1863. He once more turned
his attention to the cultivation of his farm, to which he brought his wife on the
18th of October, 1863. Her maiden name was Margaret Anna Krause, and she
was a resident of Oak Grove, but a native of the state of Massachusetts. To
them were born six children : Anna Rosena, who passed away in 1903 ; William,
our subject ; John and Albert, who reside in Trenton township ; and Mrs. Charles
Waddell and Charles, residents of Beaver Dam. The mother passed away on
June 4, 1900, and soon thereafter, the father with his daughter, Anna, and son.
Charles, came to Beaver Dam to make his home. Here on September 2, 1903,
he was married to Miss Ida Weidman, who passed away on January 3, 1908.
Mr. Ganske continued to make his home at 318 De Clark street, Beaver Dam,
where his death occurred on the 6th of March, 191 1, at the age of seventy-eight
years. He was buried from Assembly Presbyterian church, of which he had
long been a member and was for many years a ruling elder, the services being
conducted by the Rev. T. S. Johnson. He was a man of high standards of
conduct, upright principles and unquestionable integrity, and was accorded the
respect and esteem of a large circle of acquaintances, many of whom had
known him for nearly half a century.
Luxury was unknown to the youth of William Ganske, but he had the advan-
tage of being reared in a good Christian home and early had instilled in him
the principles which enabled him to develop into a self-reliant man and respected
member of society. His educational advantages were limited to the course
of study provided by the district schools, and while engaged in the mastery of
the common branches he was qualifying himself for the career of an agri-
culturist by assisting his father with the tilling of the fields and care of the
crops. He remained under the parental roof until he was married at the age
of twenty-five years, and then engaged in farming for himself on the place
he now owns. His entire tract is fenced with barbed wire and a hundred and
fifteen acres of it is under cultivation. In connection with diversified farming
he engages in stock-raising and dairying, marketing his hogs and part of his
grain. His horses are the Norman breed, while his cattle are Durham and his
hogs Poland China. Mr. Ganske has expended a large portion of his income
from his farm in improvements, his being one of the most attractive and best
kept properties in the locality. In 1911, he remodeled the residence, which con-
tains thirteen rooms, and provided it with modern appointments. It is heated
with a furnace, and a drilled well supplies water for house and barn. In 1908,
he erected a new barn, thirty-six by sixty-six feet with cement floor, which
provides ample shelter for his stock.
In i892 r Mr. Ganske was married to Miss Nettie Keefer, a daughter of
Leonard S. and Mary (Rose) Keefer, natives of Ohio and the state of New
York respectively. They came to Wisconsin in early life and were subse-
quently married in this county, where for many years the father engaged in
farming. They are now residing in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, where he
is continuing his agricultural pursuits and also engages in buying grain. Mrs.
Ganske is the second in order of birth in a family of three, and was born on
the 20th of June, 1865. She is the mother of four children, the eldest of whom,
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
483
Carroll, died at the age of three and a half years. In order of birth the others
are Louis, Cora and Mabel.
The family attend the Assembly Presbyterian church at Beaver Dam, in
which the parents hold membership. Mr. Ganske votes with the republican
party and served for three years as clerk of the school board. He is a man of
much earnestness of purpose, energy and determination, and in the develop-
ment of his interests is meeting with the success which invariably results from
the intelligent utilization of such qualities.
WILLIAM GREENWOOD WATERWORTH.
William G. Waterworth has been engaged in farming since the beginning
of his active career and is living upon a fine tract of one hundred and forty
acres on section 30, Westford township. Upon this he carries on general farm-
ing and stock-raising and is meeting with the measure of success which rewards
earnest and well directed labor and special efficiency. He was born in Court-
land township, Columbia county, in January, 1856. His father, Thomas Water-
worth, was a native of Lancashire, England, born in 1815, and came to America
in 1852, settling in Courtland township, Columbia county, upon a farm upon
which he died in 1898. He is buried in Courtland cemetery. His wife was in
her maidenhood Miss Sarah Greenwood and was born in Yorkshire, England,
in 1814. Their marriage occurred in 1836 and Mrs. Waterworth came to
America with her husband, dying upon the farm in Courtland township in
1893. She also is buried in Courtland cemetery. They became the parents
of twelve children. Elizabeth was born in 1837 and died in infancy, and is
buried in England. Mary, who was born in 1838, married Benjamin Crowther,
who is now deceased. He was buried in Courtland cemetery, Columbia county,
and his widow makes her home in Springvale, Wisconsin. Isaac, who was
born about 1839, died in infancy and is buried in England. Grace, bora in 1841,
is residing in Westford. She is the widow of Joseph Phillips, whose remains
rest in Courtland cemetery. Hannah, born in 1843, lives in Seattle, Washing-
ton. She married James Hatton, who died in 1908 and was buried in Fountain
Prairie, Wisconsin. Wright, born in 1845, married Martha Bender and they
make their home in Fountain Prairie. Thomas, born in 1847, married Lucy
Bennett, who died in 1897 and was buried in Courtland cemetery. His second
wife was Eliza Bennett, a sister of his first wife. His death occurred in 191 1
and his widow resides in Randolph. Sarah, born in 1849, married Demos
Nashold and they reside in Otsego, Columbia county. Susanna, born in
1852, married Clark Gravel, of Courtland. She died in 1904 and was buried in
Courtland cemetery. John, born in 1853, married Christina Braendersdorf and
they live in Columbus, Wisconsin. William Greenwood, of this review. Jane
Elizabeth, born in 1858, married Frank Reak and they reside on the old home-
stead in Courtland township.
William G. Waterworth was educated in the public schools of his native
section and fanned upon his father's holdings until two years after his mar-
riage. He then moved to his present property, upon which he is still residing.
484
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
His farm comprises one hundred and forty acres, one hundred and twenty
acres of which are under cultivation. He has it in excellent condition, accom-
plishing this result by following the most practical and progressive methods. He
raises cattle of all grades and makes a specialty of this branch of his activities.
On December 25, 1886, Mr. Waterworth was united in marriage to Miss
Helen May Alvord, a daughter of Clark and Elizabeth (Bostwick) Alvord, and
they became the parents of four children: William, who was bom April 1, 1888;
Guy LeRoy, born May 9, 1892; Hazel Ilia, born February 23, 1896; and Jennie
May, born March 6, 1901. As a native son of Wisconsin, as a successful agri-
culturist and a thoroughly upright and honest man, Mr. Waterworth is justly
entitled to the high place which he holds in the respect and esteem of his
fellow citizens. Prosperity has crowned his efforts and his excellent farm is
evidence of the usefulness and value of his work.
WILLIAM CHARLES SCHOENFELD.
William Charles Schoenfeld is one of the active and progressive farmers who
in their successful cultivation of the soil by modern methods are adding much
toward making Dodge county one of the rich and productive sections of the
middle west. He is operating over four hundred acres of land on sections 21 and
22, Beaver Dam township, and is doing efficient work as a general farmer, stock-
raiser and dairyman. He was born upon the farm which he is now managing,
April 1, 1872, and is a son of William and Mary Schoenfeld, the former a
native of Germany and the latter of Austria. The father came to America when
he was twenty-two years of age, settling about the year 1850 in Trenton town-
ship, where he purchased forty acres of land which he improved and cultivated
for one year. At the end of that time he sold his original property and pur-
chased the tract of land upon which our subject now resides. He married in
Beaver Dam and followed agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred
in 1882. His wife survived him for three years and both are buried in the old
Beaver Dam cemetery.
Mr. Schoenfeld is one of a family of eleven children. He was reared upon
his father's farm and attended the district schools of his native section. His
father died when he was eleven years old and his older brother was appointed
administrator of the estate. When Charles Schoenfeld became of age he inherited
the place upon which he now lives and has been active and prosperous as a
general farmer and stock-raiser since that time. He has three hundred and
twenty acres in hay and grain, which he feeds to his stock. His farm is well
equipped for the carrying on of a model agricultural enterprise. It has thqee fine
barns one hundred feet long by thirty-six feet wide, which were built by the father
of our subject and remodeled by Mr. Schoenfeld in 1906, when he added fifty
feet to their lengths. The water for all purposes is supplied from a drilled well
upon the property and the stock is watered from springs in the pastures. Mr.
Schoenfeld also operates a dairy, keeping forty-five graded Shorthorn and
Holstein cows for this purpose and selling the milk and cheese to a neighboring
creamery. His straightforward business methods and his industry and determin-
Digitize
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
465
ation have aided and hastened his success. lie is practical and therefore pros-
perous, and his expert knowledge unites with his well directed activity as the
basis of the gratifying success which has crowned his efforts as a farmer and
stock-raiser. He resides in the comfortable and commodious home which his
parents erected upon the farm and which he has remodeled several times, mak-
ing substantial improvements in the spring of 191 2.
In January, 1894, Mr. Schoenfeld was united in marriage to Miss Edith
Schultz, a daughter of Carl and Minnie (Grunewald) Schultz, of Beaver Dam.
Mrs. Schoenfeld was the fifth in a family of seven children and was born on
January 25, 1875. Sh « and her husband have two children: Harrison McKinly,
who is sixteen years of age and lives at home; and Lillian Lewilda, who has
reached the age of eleven.
In his political views Mr. Schoenfeld is a consistent republican and served
for two years as a member of the school board. He and his family are mem-
bers of the Evangelical church of Beaver Dam. He is a farmer of the modern
school. His methods are scientific, while eminently practical and consequently
he obtains results and his enterprise is successful in all its aspects.
WILLIAM C. GEITTMANN.
William C. Geittmann has been conducting his present flourishing grocery
store in Beaver Dam since 1905 and in the intervening years has built up an
extensive patronage which is the natural result of his systematic. business meth-
ods and his honorable principles. He was born in the city, in which he now
resides, February 4, 1878, and is a son of Frederick and Dorothy Geittmann
His father was a native of Germany, where his birth occurred in 1838. He
was educated in that country and during his term of service in the army par-
ticipated in the Franco- Prussian war as a member of a cavalry regiment. He
belongs to the German Lutheran church and is widely known as an exemplary
and honorable man. When he came to America he established his residence in
Wisconsin, settling first in Watertown and later in Beaver Dam where he now
lives at the advanced age of seventy-four years. He and his wife became the
parents of eight children: Frederick, who is thirty-seven years of age and is
in the wholesale hat business in Milwaukee; William C., the subject of this
sketch; Edith, now Mrs. C. M. Baird, of Evanston, Illinois; Edwin, an attor-
ney at law in Kansas City, Missouri ; Herbert, who is in business at Camp
Douglas, Wisconsin ; and Elmer, Mary and Minnie, all of whom reside in
Beaver Dam.
William C. Geittmann was educated in the public schools of Wisconsin and
pursued the usual course of study until he was fourteen years of age, when he
found employment with an iron manufacturing concern, remaining in that
connection until 1894, when he returned to Beaver Dam in order to take up a
position with the Newton & Wcry Company. This employment continued until
1902, when he severed his connection with the enterprise and accepted a posi-
tion with Jordan & Pfeiffer, with whom he was for one year. At the end
of that time he became identified with the grocery business, conducting a suc-
cessful concern with John Kohler. His store was located on Spring street and
Vol. II-2S
486
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
he did an increasing business in that part of the city for two years. Mr. Geitt-
mann later sold out his interest to his partner and purchased the grocery store
belonging to Mr. McLaughlin. He has been an independent merchant since
1905, and has carried on his continually growing business along modern and
progressive lines. He now has one of the largest grocery stores in Beaver
Dam and his patronage has increased as the quality of his goods becomes more
widely known.
Mr. Geittmann was united in marriage to Miss Florence Hentz. Mrs. Hentz
is one of five children born to her parents, the others being Fred, Christ, Lewis
and Emma, all of whom reside in Milwaukee. To Mr. and Mrs. Geittmann has
been born one child, William Frederick, on April 1, 1909.
Mr. Geittmann takes an intelligent interest in public affairs although he never
seeks office. He affiliates with the Lutheran church and to this religion his wife
also gives her allegiance. He belongs to the Masonic order, holding member-
ship in the lodge and chapter. He is also affiliated with the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows' and is a corporal in the Wisconsin National Guards. As an
honest, thrifty and successful tradesman he is representative of a class of mer-
chants whose business methods seek no disguise and who build up their pros-
perity on incorruptible principles.
ELMER STAAB.
Elmer Staab is a member of the firm of Staab Brothers, proprietors of a
livery stable in Beaver Dam. The business was originally the property of a
Mr. Edgerton, but for some time has been owned and conducted by the present
firm. The father of our subject was born in Germany and came to America
in antebellum days. He served his adopted country as a soldier in the Union
army and is still living in Beaver Dam.
Reared in this city, Elmer Staab was a pupil in the public and high schools
and afterward in the Wayland Academy. He likewise attended the Spencerian
Commercial school of Milwaukee and for six years he was a teacher in South
Beaver Dam. Between the ages of sixteen and twenty-four years, he attended
the Wayland School of Music, while his brother is a graduate of Gilbert's Com-
mercial school. Since engaging in the livery business Elmer Staab has met
with good success. Their livery barn is fifty-four by one hundred feet, and
the firm owns a good line of vehicles and a number of horses and their reliable
business methods are a strong factor in their success.
CHARLES A. PETTIBONE.
Charles Alexander Pettibone is one of the honored veterans of the Civil
war and holds the position at present of official translator of the French, Italian
and Spanish languages at the State Penitentiary at Waupun, where he resides.
He was born in the town of Hartsville, Steuben county, New York, May 26,
Digitized by Google
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
497
1841, and is a son of Daniel and Hannah (Fuller) Pettibone. The founders of
the American branch of the Pettibone family from which the subject of this
review is descended were among the early Huguenots, who emigrated from
France to England and from there to this country before the Revolutionary war,
and among the ancestors of Mr. Pettibone were loyal soldiers in the American
war for Independence and the War of 1812. The parents of Mr. Pettibone
came to Dodge county, Wisconsin, in 1850 and settled on a farm in Beaver Dam
township, where they continued to live during the active years of their lives.
In their family were two children: Charles A.; and Oliver F., both of whom
served in the Civil war, the latter as a member of the First Wisconsin Heavy
Artillery. They also reared an adopted daughter, Amanda Hewitt, (Mrs. H.
B. Drake) who is now deceased.
Charles A. Pettibone was reared at home and received his early education
in the public schools of Dodge county. Later he was one of the first students
who attended Wayland University, Beaver Dam, after which he took a partial
classical course at Lawrence University at Appleton, Wisconsin. On the open-
ing of the Civil war he enlisted on August 15, 1861, in Company C, First Wis-
consin Cavalry, in which he served as orderly for thirteen months. In 1862 he
was promoted to a second lieutenancy in Company C and later received the rank
of captain of Company I, First Wisconsin Cavalry. During his time of service
in the army he took part in thirty-two of the forty-five different battles credited
to the regiment and for a considerable proportion of his time he was acting
assistant quartermaster of the Second Brigade and of the First Division, C. C,
Department of the Cumberland, to which the First Wisconsin Cavalry was
assigned. He was honorably discharged and mustered out of service on March
8, 1865. Company I, to which he belonged, originally numbering one hundred
and four men, counted only twenty-three survivors at time of muster out. Recom-
missioned captain, February 25, 1865, Mr. Pettibone declined. During the war
Mr. Pettibone published a paper at Cleveland, Tennessee, for the benefit of his
command. Immediately following his discharge from the United States army
he returned to Wisconsin and for some time was engaged in school teaching
and in farming. In 1874 he established the New London News in Wisconsin,
which he conducted for a short time. In 1877 he founded the present Juneau
Telephone at Mayville, Wisconsin, which paper was the first in the United
States to be called the Telephone. The paper was subsequently moved to Juneau.
He then purchased the Horioon Reporter in 1886 and during that year he was
elected to the state senate. In 1898 he sold the Horicon Reporter and later he
and his sons purchased the Oconomowoc Democrat and changed the name of
that periodical to the Oconomowoc Republican, which they published for a few
years and later disposed of. They then purchased the Watertown Republican,
which the subject of this review published for two years and then sold. He
has since lived in Waupun, where he gives some of his time to the service of his
son-in-law, Mr. Sanborn, proprietor of the Waupun Leader. He was sergeant-
at-arms of the senate for eight years after he served as a member of that body
and he now holds the banner record for length of service as sergeant-at-arms
of the senate.
On May 26, 1865, Mr. Pettibone was united in marriage to Miss Emily M.
Brown, a daughter of Jonathan C. and Harriet (Hurlbut) Brown. The parents
Digitized by Google
4b8
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
were Pennsylvanians and settled in Wisconsin at a very early period. The
father was by trade a shoemaker and later engaged in the hotel business in Juneau,
Wisconsin. To Mr. and Mrs. Pettibone five children have been born: Jennie
May (Mrs. H. E. Turner) of Chicago; Hannah Lorejia (Mrs. W. A. Sanborn)
of Waupun; Allie E., who is engaged in teaching at Ripon; Daniel C, chief
clerk of the eighth division of the railway mail service, with headquarters at
San Francisco, California; and Stanley A., who is the head of a department
of the Otis Elevator Company, of Chicago.
Mr. Pettibone is a member of Waupun Lodge, No. 48, F. & A. M., having
become a member of the order at Beaver Dam in 1865. He also belongs to the
chapter and is a member of the -Odd Fellows order. He is a member of the Grand
Army of the Republic and in 1907 was assistant adjutant general for the
state. Mr. Pettibone is one of the substantial and reliable citizens of his city
and county and a man who has so lived as to merit and obtain the good-will
and high esteem of all his associates.
FRANK F. ELLIS.
Frank F. Ellis is a native of West ford township and a son of a pioneer in
its settlement. He is living retired in Reaver Dam, after an active life spent
entirely in agricultural pursuits. He was l>orn in 1863. His father, Jason Ellis,
was a native of New York, who came to Wisconsin in the early '40s and pur-
chased a part of the farm which is now owned by the subject of this review.
He never operated this land but went immediately to the vicinity of Oshkosh,
where he worked in a sawmill for a number of years. He then went to Green
Bay where he engaged in a similar line of occupation and afterward returned
to New York where he remained for alxmt two years. Returning to West-
ford, he purchased the farm now owned by C Starkweather on section 36 and
upon this he settled. It was a tract of uncultivated timber land entirely unim-
proved and Mr. Ellis built a log cabin upon the property which he afterward
covered with clapboards, split from oak trees. All this work he did himself and
shaved them down with a hand-draw shave. He also split and shaved by hand
all the shingles with which he roofed his house. He was among the earliest
settlers in this section of the country and was obliged to haul his wheat to
Milwaukee with ox teams and after selling his load had often barely enough
money with which to pay his expenses on the return journey. It took over a
week to make the trip to Milwaukee and back and Mr. Ellis related how the
settlers, being obliged to go to Milwaukee to secure flour, were often without
this necessary commodity. They would go into the woods and cut a section of
log, hollow out one end and in this crude utensil pound wheat with a wooden
mallet to make flour. They treated corn in the same way, making a rough
brand of cornmeal and upon this they lived until they could obtain supplies
from Milwaukee. He also used to tell of the year when pigeons came in such
numbers that they ate up all the seed as fast as it was sown. The father of
our subject planted three times in that year and, yet, he did not secure a full
crop. The family was obliged to live on potatoes and what wild game they
Digitized
HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
4H9
could shoot in the surrounding woods and for a period of six months did not
taste any food made from flour. Jason Ellis married in 1849 Miss Elizabeth
I^Crann, who was born near Strausl>erg, Germany, and who came to the United
-£fates in 1848, crossing the ocean alone. She settled in New York and there
m employed in making cheese until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Jason
have both passed away and arc buried in tlie cemetery on English Prairie,
section 15, Westford township. In their family were the following children:
Francilla, who was born in 1853, and who married Dwight Hall, of Long
Prairie, Minnesota; Metta, who was born in 1855, and who married Henry
Kienberger, also of Ixing Prairie; Minnie, who was born in 1857, and who
married Edward Teal, of Beaver Dam ; Frederick, whose birth occurred in
1859, and who died of scarlet fever when he was eight years of age, and who
is buried in the cemetery on Long Prairie; Cynthia, who was born in 1861,
and who became the wife of August Kaul, of Westford township; William,
who was born in 1865; Jason, whose birth occurred in 1867, and who lives in
Long Prairie, Minnesota; Inez, who was born in 1870, and who died at the
age of eight years; and Frank, the subject of this sketch.
Frank F. Ellis was educated in the public schools of his native section and
has always been engaged in agriculture. He married in 1885 and for two years
afterward worked in the employ of Orrie Williams. He then rented a farm
for two years and finally moved upon the property where his son now lives.
This he operated on shares for his father until the latter's death and then
assumed entire management. The farm comprises one hundred and twenty-six
acres, of which one hundred and five arc tillable, and is located on section
36, Westford township. Mr. Ellis brought this enterprise to a highly improved
and developed state by constantly adhering to progressive methods and modern
standards. He recently abandoned agricultural pursuits and is living retired
at No. 323 Grove street, Beaver Dam.
In 1885 Mr. Ellis was united in marriage to Miss Ella T. Swan, and they
became the parents of four children: Alvin, who was born in 1886, and who
lives at home; Frank, who was born in 1888; Chester, who was born in 1890,
and who lives at home; and Fay, who was born in 1892, and who married Miss
Paula Hinkus. He is now operating his father's homestead and is mimlrered
among the progressive and enterprising farmers of the section.
Mr. Ellis has been a farmer all his life, having been identified with agricul-
tural pursuits since his early childhood. Prosperity has crowned his industry
and well directed activity, making him one of the representative and sub-
stantial farmers of his district and he has earned his present retirement by
diligent labor in the past.
INDEX
Albert, Ferdinand 356
Anderson. H_ J. S 70
Anthony. Van Wyck 468
Arndi. E. L 159/
Bacilli iiber, J. G aS.
Bachhuber. L. M. 310
Baird. R, J 423.
Barstow, J. E. 370
Bartelt, F. G joo
Bartelt. Herman .239
Bartsch, E. A .375
Bar wig, Byron .340
Batsch, G. F 414
Bauer, F. S aoj
Bauer, George 254
Bavlev, R. W itS
Becke'n, \V. H 113
Becker, H. A 115
Becker, ~J7 B 463
Bechert, H. E 3j
•Beichl, Edward 31
Bergen. Henry 205
Bertel, A. A 143
Beske, Gustav 30°
Bcule, Peter IBB
Beyer. W. M : 105
flicchl. R. A. . ../ U
Bilgrien. Herman' 248
Biniel. R P Hz
Bloedel, R. E 474
Sodden. Frank 77
odden, John .2S3
oehmer. Henry 304
loeing. Edgar 14
lohnenstengel, William 2®
lonner, Nelson 41 1
/Rrayman John IS2.
'Brooks, Joseph, Sr 308
Brown, E. P &
Brown. L \V 3J91
runke. Frani 35j
unnell, J. A 200
urger, Jacob 1S4
lurke, M E L42
Rurn<-. J. F W4
{u«se« it*. A. H_. 44
liillcrbrodt. A A
Butterbrodt. E E *
Sutterbrodi, F. T
tntterbrodt, R H_ 404.
!allahan. Patrick '9'
.ampbcll. S
:arroll. J. H
M
11
Carroll, T. P
Carrol), Michael
Casey, Michael
Caughhn, William
Chandler, A. B
Charmley, R. A
Christian, Fred
Christiansen, C. A
Clark, A. J
Clark, R. F.
Clausen, F. H
Clifford, E.~fT~
Clifford, John
Clough, Albert
Clough, Alfred
Cochrane, E. T
Congdon, F. F. ...
Cutler, G. W
Deri van, James
Dehne, Frederick
Dick, J. J
Dickinson, John
Docter. C. W.
Dornfeld, E. P
Draheim, G. E.
Drake, R. C
Drown, S. A.
Edmunds, E. B
Eggleston, C. H
Ellis, F. F....
Elser, George
Elser. S. C
Erdmann, A. C
Evans, J. T
Evans. Rebecca
Evison, J. K
Falk; J. W
Falkinham, William
Feelyater. E. M
Fellenx, Henry
Firehammer, Ctrl
Fischer, J. C
Fischer, J. E
Flanmgan. L. N
Fletcher, D. F
Fletcher. R. M...
Flohr, Gustavus
Forkmann, |T_ H
Frank, Andrew
Frebcr, Henry
Fredrick. Willinni
421
IM>»A
Freeman. Edward n8
Freeman, John 7_8
Freeman. J. J , , , 130"
Froemming, John , .464
Keelev. L. S
Keller\ S. C.
Kelley. John. .
Kienow. F. A
Klink, N. M
Koch. A. A..
Koepsell. A. J
Kohlhoff, Loui<
Kohlmann, L. R.
Roll. Jacob
Kraetzncr. W. F
Kraut. Rudolph
Krohn. F. W
Gantke. William .481
Gchhardi. F. \V 8ti
Gehrke, 0. A ,400
Geittmann, \V. C 48*
Gtnrick, Alb«n .426
Genrich, A. A. ,224
Gerbitz, \Y. J. F 132
Gilmore. H- S 239
Glander. Henry 2& ; Kronitr. Frederick
Goeggerle, R A 1H1 Kronitz, L. E
Goetsch, A. A aLu $ Kruegcr. 11 E
Grams. O. A .420 Krucgrr. R. F
Grebel, C F .^57 Krueger. J. R
Griepentros. C E. \V 140 cKrueger, William
Grimmer. W. G 47 Kuehn, Ernst
Griner, J. C 116 Kuhaupt, G. W
Gronert, August 171
Guenthcr, E. F .347
Guenther, Rudolph .jot
Haessly, Nathan 322
Haner, E J 101
Ham, Owen ..US
Harvey. C. W . ..m
Hathaway, C. W .447
Hawk*. Charles .34X
Healy. J. G. 7J
Heckman, William i=U)
Helbing. C. W T1B9
Helling. Fred .337
Hemmy, T. P 7J
Herker. P. B ..242
Herrick. T. J .144
Hilgendorf, Carl 27
Hitter. J. D Sj
Hinkes. J. N .252
Hoard, H. H 3S6
Hodgins, G. M 48
Holdridge, S, A , .204
Holtz, tL M rfgg
Hooker, C. E 369
Hosig. F. J. 163
Hotchkiss, D. J 306
Howard. W. C *>7
Hoyer, A. A 2.fl'
llubl>ell, 1L B U4
Hughes, J \V .403
Hughes. R. C- . j'u
Dusting. O. C
H listing. P. O jW>
I Instil John 39S
Hull), Thcodor 107
illinp. O F 63
Irving. Rnlieri 3F3
lacoh-. IL S
Jacobs. M A
leil'c. A A .
lone-. 1 R . ..
- >
«os
Jours. O R .424
Jones. S R .0/'
Jr>m->. \V L *\o
K.-uliiic. C A 4 1 < j
Kar«iei>. A. C ij
LamorettN. D. P
Langenfeld, P. F
Lawrence, A. P
Lehmann. Theodore
Leslie, G. E
Lightner, J. S
Lindeman. F. F. L.
Linden, G. M
Loehrke, J. A
Loo mans, J. A
Lueck, A. W
Lueck. E F
Lueck. F. W
Lueck. IL L
Liiedtke. A C. W
Lyons, Ellen
McAdams, John
McAdams. J K
McCaig. J ILL
McCall. F. L:
McClure. J X
McConaghy, H. A
McFctridge, E. C
Mallon. T. R
Malonc. J. E
Mnnlcy. J. M
Manning, Michael
Marden. Eilniiiuil
Markham. C A
Mnrtniardl. A A
Marqnart. J 1
Marsh. F. A
Marsh, Harrv
Matthr-.. F. H
Maurcr. Richard
Mcncrl. R F
Mes-cr. W. Jl
Mtl/Rir. A N,
MrUger, ]■ J . . .
Mrt/pcr. loscph, Jr
Miller, C C
Millet. H. k
Miller. I W
Miltsen." 1 L.
Milton. William
Mirfach. F. J . . . .
Mclir. Martin
M<.lllun. Jirlin
INDEX
Moldenhauer, Eugene .372
Morgan, fcL L ..333
Morse. G. \V .T46
Moylan. J. C ..jfe
Mueller, Jacob .3711
Muth, John ..338
Naber, EH 28a
Nihrr , O. D 298
Neuman, I. J .137
Newton, T L 92
North. C. F .235
Norton, E. B 82
Noyes, A. F 173
O'Brien. J. D ..446
CVConror, Eupene .362
Oestreich, E. C .103
Ohnstedt, T. W ..100
Otto, R. F ZllS
Owen, W. R. ..271
Owens, Lewis .243
Pinetti, P. A ..178
Parker, E. E ^qq
Patton, E. B ..316
Pautsch, Carl .T20S
Pautsch, E. F .312
Pautsch, Herman 370
Pautsch, L. C TTu
Perkins, T. P .y
Pettibone. C. A
Pfeffer. Peter 210
Pichery, F. C 380
Pieper, Carl 1^5
Plasil, J. J ..286
Plasil, F. F 23
Pluck, J. W 86
P olzin, R. H, 244
Potts. A H 392
Pritchard. William .467
Randall. S. M ..408
Rassman, O. EL 155
Rehfeld. E. C 52
Rex, Emil 159
Richards, Evan ^122
Richardt, Henry 1 39
Richtrr, Frank .177
Riege. J F 30
Roberts. H_ T ..466
Roberts. R F 417
Roberts. R. T 349
Roberts, William _jfi3
Roffeis, J. P v 8
Rohde, J. M ?«.
Roll, Richard, Sr jgj
Rorschneider. Herman .119
Rousseau. G. R. 324
Roweii. t. b rrS
Ruecker, Gustav gjg
Ruedebusch, C. F ^52
Ryder, A. F. q
Sawyer, J. E 67
Schlaebitz, C W .247
Schoen. R. E 2
Schoenfeld. W. C
Schoenwetter, A. W
«Schultz, Frank ...
»Schultz. 1. R
• Schultz. W. F
t Schulze, E. J
» Schulze, L. E
Schumacher, J. J...
Schunemann, W. F
Schsalbach, C. G.. .
Schwantes, Albert
Schwantes, Herman
Schwantes, H. W.. .
Schwann, W. T....
vSchwefel, Q^Jl....
tSchwefel, W. J
•• Schwefel, W. P
Sears, H. B
• Seifert, A. H
Sette, Frederick
Shafer, -William
Sherman, B. F.
Sherman. H. B
Sherman, J. H,
Simon, E. W.
Simon, L. J
Sleight, W. T
SrnlrhrC E
Smith; G. W.
Snyder, J. T
Spiering, Yl. E.
Staab, Elmer
Stacy. W. D
Starkweather, Courtney
Steger, John
• Stueber, fcL J. C
Swan, G. B
Terry, D. B
Theisen, G. W
* Thielke. H. J... ........
Thomas, R. £
Tietema, J. H
Uehling. E. M
Van Brunt, D. C
Van Brunt, W. A
Velte, H. A
Verg, F. H
• Voigt, Julius
flVolkman, A. D
eVolkmann, William
Voorus, C. W
Wagner, Joseph
Walsh, T. T
Ward. Charles
Warren, W. E
Washburn, A. A...
Waterworth , W. G
Webb. E. P
Weber. Gebhard...
Wedemever. Hiram
Wegener. W. J
Wegner, Reinhold
Welsch, J. A
Welsch. J. N
Wenger, Christ...
Wenz. E. C
- Wheeler, C. A
494 INDEX
While, Philander 24 Young, L. J.
Wilcox. A W 50
Witliami W. W *nt ">n»n, J M
William*. W. W 40s , ,
Woock, A. F 102 ^J'cglcr. J L
WocxJwird, Daniel 218 fc Ziemer, Herman
Zimmerman, A. A-
Yorgey, D. K 2j6 Zink. P. J
Young, Albert 222 Zweck, J. V
J
I
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